Strategies to Reduce Your Energy Consumption & Save Money

With the concern of high prices of fuel, and now even milk, it's time to recognize every option you have to control your spending. One of the easiest ways to save money is to lower your energy bill. So many little things can add up to big savings each month.

While not everyone can afford to have new energy efficient windows and doors installed, we can all accomplish the following checklist which is sure to keep your energy consumption down.

- Shut Down Your Computer/Laptop When Not Being Used. Even when a computer is "hibernating" you are still using a considerable amount of energy to keep it running.

- Unplug Your Cell Phone Charger. A charger left plugged in is a continual drain of energy, whether the phone is attached or not.

- Turn Off Those Lights. With just two lights on in unoccupied home, you are wasting precious money. If you feel a light must be left on when you come home in the evening, invest in a solar-powered light or battery-powered nightlight to show you the way in. The minimal amount spend will be saved in a very short period of time.

- Change Your Light bulbs. One of the best ways to keep your energy bill in check is to switch to florescent bulbs with high-energy savings ratings. These bulbs are now available at virtually any department or home improvement store.

- Unplug Appliances When Traveling. If you plan on being away for an extended period of time there is no need for your appliances, especially those with clocks, such as your stove and microwave, to continue to be plugged in and run up your bill.

- Adjust or Purchase a Programmable Automatic Thermostat. One of the easiest ways to cut your bill down is to adjust your thermostat when you leave for the day, or purchase one you can program to automatically adjust a few degrees when your gone. Changing the controlled temperature just a few degrees when your gone can save hundreds each year. In the summer, take full advantage of any cool night by shutting down the A/C, opening your windows and placing a fan in front of them to draw in cooler air.