The heat of the summer is sweltering outside, and the squeeze of pressure is firmly being felt on your wallet. The electricity bill is one of extreme importance. Not only for the cause of a healthy budget, but for the sake of a healthy environment. A study from the Department of Energy shows that the average cost for a families energy bill is $1,300. This significant cost can and should be monitored.

Here are some helpful tips on decreasing your costs.

1. Install dimmers. Anywhere that lights are being used a dimmer switch can be installed. With the use of dimmers you can save approximately 50%. Also, if you are going to be out of a room for ten minutes or more, remember to turn the lights off.

2. Turn down your thermostat. For every degree that you turn down your heat in the 60 to 70 degree range, there is a savings of 5% on heating costs.

3. Reduce hot water heater temperatures. A 120 degree setting is a normal setting, and should be used unless a dishwasher requires higher.

4. Shorten your showers. 66% of your water heater expense is due to showers. If you are able to cut your shower times in half you will save up to 33% of your hot water heating expense.

5. Invest in ceiling fans. You could cut cooling expenses 80% if you used them instead of your air conditioning. Remember every degree is a 5% heating cost savings.

6. Use appliances efficiently. Only wash full loads of laundry and use cold water when able. Unplug all unnecessary electronics. Even when your computer is in 'sleep' mode it is still drawing electricity. TV's, VCR's and controlling decks all draw power even when turned off. Printers, scanners and copiers also are pulling power when not in use. If able, unplug them.

7. Replace your Heating and AC filters. Most filters are disposable and should be replace monthly. They not only allow your heating and ac unit to run more efficiently, they also prolong the life of your main heating and ac unit.

8. Cover all liquids placed in the refrigerator. Uncovered liquids allow moisture to escape into the air making your refrigerator work harder.

9. Allow hot items to cool outside of your refrigerator before placing them inside. Caution: Bacterial growth begins approximately 20 minutes after cooking.

10. Barbecue outside. If you have the ability to barbecue outside, do as often as possible. This will allow the interior of your house to remain cool, without the exhaust of a hot stove. Remember in the summertime that every time you open and close your patio doors your letting hot air in and cold air out.

11. Close your curtains and shades at night. Open them during the day. This allows the use of free energy - sunlight and warmth. Also becomes a barrier at night against the cold air and drafts.

The biggest way to control your water bill is think - CONSERVE. If you remember to conserve you will see a significant decrease in your electricity expense. You will also feel good about helping the world become a better place.

Learn more about this author, David Evans.
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