The environment is suffering and natural resources are depleting because we are using too much of everything. But by taking small steps to protect our environment we can also save money! If you follow the tips below, you will actually see real savings on your energy bills. You don’t need to do everything but you can do something.

In a typical developed nation home, electrical appliances make up about 20% (or a fifth) of energy use. The first step is to look for Energy Star labels (energy efficiency ratings) when buying new appliances and products.

Light bulbs: Use CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs) rather than conventional incandescent light bulbs. CFLs cost on average 3-5 times as much as the incandescent light bulb (although this rate is coming down all the time), CFLs only use about 25% of the electricity and lasts years longer.

Dishes: Never wash your dishes in a dishwasher unless it is a full load. Similarly only hand wash dishes when you have a significant pile.

Laundry: Wash clothes at a lower temperature than you normally do. Instead of using a tumble dryer, hang your clothes on a clothes line where possible or air dry inside.

Refrigerators: Limit the number of times you open your fridge and freezer, don’t stand with the door open thinking about what you want! Leaving the door open wastes unnecessary energy.

Take Showers rather than Baths: Taking showers instead will reduce your water usage and also lower the heating bill.

Turn Off all Electronic Appliances when not in Use: Turn off all lights, computers, printers, games consoles, electronics, etc when they are not in use. Even when appliances are turned off (on standby), energy is still being consumed from. To avoid uncessesary energy costs, unplug all appliances.

Insultation!!! Weather-Strip Windows and Doors: Check windows and doors for any air leaks which can be sealed by caulking or weather-stripping. By removing the leaks in your home, hot and cool air will be kept in your home longer and again save on energy costs