See how your savings can really add up by following these tips.
Lower Your Lighting Costs
Replace current light bulbs with energy-saving compact flourescent (CFL) bulbs. They use a fourth of the erngy and last up to 10 times longer. A 15-watt CFL bulb provides as much light as a 60 watt standard light bulb. Averae savings: around $50 per year. Use the extra cash for a night at the movies with your family.
Tame the Toilet
A constantly running toilet can use up to 8,000 gallons of wter each year. Save water by installing a toilet repair kit that features a new valve, flapper and other devices that will conserve water. Average savings about $40 per year. You can download 30 songs with the money you save.
Fix Leaky Fixtures
Aside from causing that annoying "drip," leaky faucets can also cause a spike in your water bill. Replacing the aerator and rubber washer will cost you pennies yet save you dollars in the long run. As for the shower-head, consider installing a flow-restricting model. A family of four can conserve 10,000 gallons of water per year. Average savings; $100 - $300 per year. That should cover a few dinners out for the family!
Hot Water Help
Your water heater might be working harder than it needs to, costing you precious dollars. Reduce the temperature on the unit to about 120 degrees - the water doesn't need to be any hotter. If the unit is older than 12 years, you may want to look into replacing it with anew, more energy-efficient model. Average savings $35 per year. That is almost enough for a tank of gas.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat can significantly reduce energy costs, especially in the winter and summer months. Programmable models allow you to automatically adjust the temperature winter and summer months. Programmable models allow you to automatically adjust the temperature throughout the day, creating a specific energy-saving "program" for weekdays and weekends. Some models even allow you to set preferences on the hour for each day of the week. Average savings $250 per year. These savings can fund your morning latte habit every day for more than two months.
Tighten Up
Do you feel a draft around your windows and doors? If so, seal them up with caulk or weather stripping. Also, make sure you have adequate insulation in your attic. According to ENERGY STAR, homeowners can save up to 20 percent on their heating and cooling costs by sealing and insulating. Average savings: $250 per year. Use that savings to enjoy the great indoors with anew DVD player for your home.