• Use the smallest possible appliance when cooking to cut your kitchen costs.  Microwaves, toaster ovens and crock-pots use much less energy than a full scale oven.

  • Lower the window blinds or close the curtains to slow the transfer of heat and help keep rooms cooler.

  • Consider adding solar screening to west-facing windows that catch the heat later in the day.

  • Adjust your thermostats when you leave the house or go to bed to keep the air conditioner from running more than necessary.

  • Don’t leave unnecessary lighting on during the day or when you leave a room.

  • Replace your incandescent with LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes).  LED bulbs are up to 80% more efficient then incandescent bulbs.

  • Unplug cell phone tablet chargers when not in use.  Chargers and appliances still draw power when plugged in and not in use.  Turn off computers or use the standby mode.  Computers can use as much electricity as new refrigerators.

  • Make sure the cracks are sealed around pipe penetrations coming through walls.

  • If your water heater is more than 7 years old, consider buying a new energy efficient water heater.

  • Insulate exposed hot water lines.

  • Drain 1 or 2 gallons of water from the bottom of your water heater each year to reduce sediment build up.

Find more tips, videos and Energy Saving Applications at www.togetherwesave.com.