The Secrets to Save Energy and Save Money

How would you like to save money fast? Not an unusual question these days, but you really can save money quickly when you save energy. Why are you leaving sewing machines, coffee makers, toaster ovens, radios, fans and fax machines plugged into power every day? Shutting off an appliance, a light or unplugging an electrical device is an easy way to save money.

If you change your lifestyle, work to save energy, conserve and shut off appliances in your home you can begin to save money, while you save energy. Walk through your home, garage, patio, garden, deck and swimming areas. The secrets to save energy is to notice every item using any form of energy, how and where it's used and what method supplies power. Consider these items and suggestions as you read to save energy and save money.

Check with the power company and find out if they offer off-peak times when rates are lower and you can save money. You'll be saving money when you run a washing machine, dryer or dishwasher during these hours. To reduce energy demand many off-peak hours are late at night, which may work well for some peoples' schedules and save them money. Running self-cleaning pool devices during off-peak hours will save energy consumption during peak day time hours. While you have the electric bill look at billing charges and make sure, everything looks in order.

Wear appropriate clothing at home for temperature conditions and don't hesitate to throw on an extra sweater or enjoy TV with a throw blanket to save energy. Take advantage of sunny days by opening curtains and when seasons change, consider rearranging furniture to warmer, sunnier areas of a room to save energy and save money on heating.

Adjust temperature control settings in freezers and refrigerators to save money by setting to optimum cooling conditions. Set refrigerators to 45°F and freezers to zero. Defrosting ice build up on older models causes less wear and tear on compressors and saves energy, while saving money. Clean out dust and hair from around compressors for proper air circulation.

Save money by replacing appliances with newer Energy Star rated devices that consume less power or propane gas. You'll save energy when running newer models of freezers, ranges, heaters, refrigerators and water heaters.

Check washing machines, water heaters and dishwasher settings to see they are set to the lowest possible settings to save energy. Some appliances can be set for water saving modes or energy efficient cycles, which saves money.

It's easy to save energy on computers, accessories and fax machines. Take advantage of sleep or hibernation modes on computers. If you put several components on one power strip, you'll save money by using one easily controlled power switch for shutting down all equipment, rather than none. Don't forget kids' rooms that may have similar needs.

An efficiently running furnace will save money with a clean filter. Plant fast growing deciduous trees for shade in summers and sunshine during winters. Use drying racks for clothes rather than running a dryer to save money and save energy. A clean lint trap in a dryer runs more efficiently.

Keep lights turned off when not in use and replace bulbs with lower wattage or energy saving types. Maintain filters for air conditioning and central heating. Selecting optimum temperature settings seasonally will save energy and really save money.

Convert electric security lighting outdoors to solar lighting to save energy and save money on electric bills. Some appliances bleed off small amounts of power when left plugged in even though they are turned off. Consider unplugging them if not frequently used to save energy. Multiple items all plugged into one power strip are easily shut off with one switch to save energy.

Insulating water heaters and sealing leaks around windows and doors with weather stripping and caulking is another way to save energy. Unplug unnecessary appliances while on vacation. Forgotten power tools plugged into garage outlets waste power. Save energy in spare bedrooms, sewing and hobby rooms by unplugging lights, fans, radios and equipment.

Involve your children by talking about how they will save energy around the house and save money. Kids love to help and they may have cleaver ideas that you overlooked.