Unplug instant-on TVs and chargers (like cell phone chargers). Unplug computers and other electronics that have a LCD display or a light or use surge protectors for the convenience of an on/off switch.
Touch your tank to see if it needs insulation. A tank that’s warm to the touch needs more. Adding insulation can reduce standby heat loss by 25%–45%. This will save you around 4%–9% in water heating costs.
Insulating your water heater tank is fairly simple and inexpensive, and it will pay for itself in about a year. You can find pre-cut jackets or blankets available from around $10–$20. Choose one with an insulating value of at least R-8. Some utilities sell them at low prices or offer rebates. Some even install them at a low cost or for free.
It makes no sense to let expensive heat or cooled air flow out of your house through poorly insulated walls or leaky doors and windows. A trick for detecting large gaps is to wait for a dark night and shine a flashlight over any potential openings while someone on the other side
watches for light. Light will shine through large cracks. You can also test for drafts with a stick of incense. Look at the smoke. If it’s drifting rather than moving up in a straight line, this indicates a draft.
Lock your windows. It’s more than a good security measure. It’s the best way to ensure a tight seal to prevent A/C or heat leakage.
Some power companies will come to your home for free or for a fee and show you how well your home is insulated and tell you how you can improve it.
If it’s daylight, open your curtains. Sunlight's good for you! Use lights sparingly.
And then close the door.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs use two-thirds less energy than incandescent light bulbs, and they last longer. They typically pay for themselves within three months.
Close a small piece of paper like a dollar bill in your refrigerator door. If it pulls out easily with little resistance, you need to replace the seals. Also, ask yourself if you really want anything from your fridge before you open the door. If you’re just browsing, you’re wasting a lot of energy by releasing that cold air your fridge has to replace.
Hang your clothes to dry. Remember that wonderful smell of line dried cotton sheets? Dryers consume a massive amount of energy.
Reverse the direction if you are trying to heat your home. Whether you are heating or cooling, air circulation will help your thermostat work more efficiently by evening out hot and cold spots in your home.
Dirty air filters could cost you up to $1 a day.
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