Save Money, Conserve Energy: Going Green Means More Money for You

Going green doesn't mean that you have to make radical lifestyle changes. Conserving energy in your home is easy. You will have to enlist the aid of your family, though. The good part is that both children and adults can learn these habits quickly. It's a snap! Begin today and put money back into your pocket.

1) Turn off lights. If no one is in the room, don't waste electricity. Turn off outdoor lights, too - as long as you feel safe not illuminating your yard.

2) Use only compact fluorescent light bulbs. These bulbs cost a little more, but you will see immediate results on your electric bill.

3) Run water only when you need it.

4) Turn off the heat setting on your dishwasher.

5) Get a small refrigerator, or don't use one at all. Go smaller in cubic feet. Refrigerators eat up more energy than any other appliance.

6) Use cold water to wash clothes and rinse dishes.

7) Turn down the temperature setting on your hot water heater. 120 degrees Fahrenheit is good.

8) Dry your clothes outside. Remember when everyone did that?

9) Use the grill instead of the stove. Your house stays cool and cook outs are fun.

10) Set your thermostat at 80 degrees Fahrenheit for the air conditioner and 68 degrees Fahrenheit for the heater. If you can go higher or lower, all the better.

11) Turn off the computer when you are not using it. Program your computer to go to sleep at five minutes when not in use.

12) Keep the refrigerator door shut. Don't open the fridge unless you have to. Every time the door is opened, cold air escapes and makes this appliance work harder.

13) Keep the oven door closed. When the oven is in use, don't peek. This alters the temperature and causes the oven to have to reheat itself.

14) Plant trees around your home, especially on the west and southern sides. Trees are big air conditioners as well as air fresheners.

15) In the winter, open window shades and let the light in to brighten and warm up the room. In the summer, close the shades to keep your home cool.

Think these little tips make a big difference? You bet they do, and it is easy to track your results. You monthly bills will be lower, and that means more money for you!