More Ideas & Tips

When you turn off electronics, make sure they are really off. Many devices consume power all the time, such as monitors, printers, DVD players and other home entertainment and office equipment. A smart power bar will ensure that these devices are not only protected against surges, but when the main device is shut off, power is also cut to selected ancillary equipment on the bar or strip.

Many electronic devices left plugged in, even when turned off, still draw power. This is known as "phantom power" (or standby power) and can account for up to 15% of the device's energy while turned off.

Leaks typically increase heating and cooling costs and may also require substantial costs for repair.

If you don't want to turn your computer off then make sure the "sleep" mode is enabled, which cuts energy use to less than half. Be sure to at least shut off the monitor because it uses 60% of the power used by a computer!

Typically, older ducts aren't insulated so the heat or cool air that your heating and/or cooling systems provided can escape before it gets into your home. Insulating your ducts can reduce this loss.

Air leaks can cost you by letting heat and cool air escape. Many homes, especially older ones, have gaps in their outer shell that allow air to escape. Common air leaks happen around fireplace chimney cases, light fixtures, windows and doors, basement sills, interior cavity walls, attic hatches, plumbing, trim areas, floors and outlets and wall switches. Sealing these leaks can make your home cozier and more efficient while helping you better manage your electricity bill.

A lack of ceiling insulation can cause heat or cool air to escape your home through your ceiling. This can be prevented by adding insulation into your attic areas above the ceiling.

A lack of floor insulation can cause heat or cool air to escape your home through your floors. This can be prevented by adding insulation under the lower floors of your house.

Some windows (especially older, metal-frame, single pane ones) can transmit heat and cool air out of your home. Prevent this by replacing them with multi-paned, insulated frame windows.

A lack of wall insulation can cause heat or cool air to escape your home through your walls. This can be prevented by adding insulation in the hallow spaces in the exterior walls of your house.