Every day we spend millions of dollars towards personal energy consumption. Yet there are various simple and effective ways to lower your electric bill and use less energy without having to make unwanted sacrifices. Not only will this help the environment but with the economy being what it is today, isn't it wise to start looking for ways to reduce our costs and become more energy efficient?
While your local electric company won't offer you a free energy generator, they will normally offer a free energy audit for your home instead. This audit in addition to determining the efficiency of your home's cooling and heating systems, may also pinpoint problems that will save you money. Audits may also show you ways to conserve energy.
Replace, or at least clean, the filters on your air conditioner, furnace and any ventilation system at least once a month or more often if needed.
When using your dishwasher, air dry the dishes instead of using the heat cycle. You'll be surprised that the dishes will dry just as will and you'll save energy.
Take showers instead of a long hot bath. This will save water and the energy needed to heat the water. Turn off the water when you're brushing your teeth or shaving. Fix any leaky faucets.
Replace your incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs. Not only do they use less energy, they last much longer than incandescent bulbs.
Set your thermostat a little higher in summer and use fans to help keep you cool. In the winter, keep the thermostat a little lower then usual and dress warmly or use portable electric space heaters to help keep you warm.
Do not set your refrigerator temperature colder than is recommended. This should be approximately 37 degrees Fahrenheit. Most refrigerators today have an energy saver switch, be sure to use it.
When it's time to buy that new appliance, look for the energy efficient logo on the label. This means that the product meets the guidelines set by the government for efficiency.
Only wash a full load of clothes or dishes because the energy and water usage for half a load is the same as for a full load.
When not using your computer, turn it off or at the very least, turn off the monitor. Even in standby mode, your computer and any appliance will continue to use energy.
While these tips aren't the only things you can do to conserve energy and lower your electric bill, they are a good start. It's not like getting free electricity, but it is the next best thing.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Luis_M_Rodriguez
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