Saving energy is something we all should care about and think more about. There are many simple ways to save energy - it's mostly about being aware and taking action. Follow the tips below to help save money, reduce the greenhouse effect, and improve the environment and your health!

• Wash your clothes in cold water.
• Lower the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Clean the lint filter in your dryer after every load - this improves air circulation and allows laundry to dry faster.
• Lightweight items take less time to dry and vice versa - dry like items together.
• Air dry your clothes during the summer months and use a drying rack during the cooler seasons.
• Cook in the oven - it uses less energy than surface burners.
• Use microwaves or outdoor grills to cook when possible (I use my grill ALL winter long...even in a foot of snow!!).
• Turn off lights when you leave a room.
• Switch all your light bulbs to compact florescent bulbs - they are up to 4 times more efficient than regular light bulbs and last 10 times longer!
• Turn off your computer monitor. If your computer has a "sleep" mode make sure this feature is enabled.
• Wash your dishes by hand rather than in the dishwasher.
• Use low-flow shower heads.
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
• Displace water in the toilet tank so you use less with each flush. Fill a plastic quart bottle with enough rocks and water to make it sink.
• Unplug appliances. Many home appliances use electricity when plugged in but are not turned on - VCRs, DVD players, toasters, coffee makers, televisions, stereos, computers - all consume energy even when they are powered off.
• Use curtains/blinds to help provide extra insulation in the winter.
• Use a laptop - they use less energy than a desktop!