Simple Ways to Save on Utilities

Don't Put That There!

Don't place lamps or TV sets near your air-conditioning thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to think that the house temperature is hotter and cause it to run longer than necessary.

Next: When It's Hot ...

When It's Hot ...

On hot, sunny days, keep your drapes or blinds shut on windows facing to the south and west and save 2 to 4 percent on your energy bill. Keep drapes or blinds closed in unoccupied rooms as much as possible.

Next: Save an Easy $20

Save an Easy $20

Move furniture away from air vents. You'll improve airflow and help your heating/cooling system work better. Save an easy $20 a year.

Next: Rethink That Second Fridge

Rethink That Other Fridge

Unused refrigerators and freezers cost about $130/year to keep running. If you don't absolutely need that second fridge, unplug it!

Next: Put it to "Sleep"

Put it to "Sleep"

Computers are energy hogs so don't leave yours running when it's not being used. Set your computer to enter "sleep" mode when not in use for 20-30 minutes. If your computer is less than five years old, it uses 95% less power in sleep mode!

Next: Pick the Perfect Pan

Pick the Perfect Pan

Use glass/ceramic pans in the oven. Glass and ceramic heat faster than metal pans which means, according to the American Council for Energy Efficiency, that you can cook your meals at a temperature 25 degrees lower in the same amount of time.

Next: Don't Peek!

Don't Peek!

NO peeking! Every time you open the oven door to check on what you are cooking, the oven temperature drops by 25°F to 75°F (and has to heat back up again). Use a timer if the oven door does not have a window.

Next: Microwave or Oven?

Microwave or Oven?

Choose your cooking appliance carefully. Microwave ovens are about 33% more efficient than convection ovens and 66% more efficient than conventional ovens. Using the regular oven costs about 43 cents per hour -- the microwave only 29 cents. A toaster oven is cheapest--it will do the job at only 11 cents per hour.

Next: Bulb Bargains

Bulb Bargains

Replace regular light bulbs with "Compact Fluorescent Lamps" (CFL's). You'll use 66% less energy.

Next: Ditch the Dust

Ditch the Dust

Keep ALL lights and light bulbs clean. Dust on your light bulbs can cut light output by 25%.

Next: Top Toilet Trick

Top Toilet Trick

Put a plastic bottle of water in your toilet tank. The average tank uses 3-7 gallons per flush. The bottle will displace enough water to save one-half gallon per flush, or 10 gallons of water per day in the average home.

Next: Look at the Label

Look at the Label

You've heard of the Energy Star rating on home appliances. Now look for the Water-Sense label to choose quality, water-efficient products. Together, the two labels can help you save as much as 50% on your home energy bill.

Next: Winning Ways With Water

Winning Ways With Water

Add water aerators (which reduce the water flow) to your faucets throughout the house. They cost between .50-$3.00 and will pay for themselves in just weeks thanks to the money you will save on your water and sewer bill. Installing a low flow shower head can save you $55 a year.

Next: Tame That Energy Hog

Tame That Energy Hog

Your hot water heater is usually the second biggest energy hog in your home, accounting for 15% or more of your utility bill. That makes it well worth your time to use these two quick tips to cut your costs.
If you have a hot water tank drain a quart of water from your hot water tank every few months to remove sediment that interferes with the heat transfer and lowers the efficiency.
Insulate that water heater tank and save 4-9% on water heating costs. You can buy a pre-cut "blanket" for less than $20 and they are a snap to install.

Next: More From the Dolans

More From Dolans.com:

We told you they would be easy! Why not walk around your right now and put some of these tips to use today. We know budgets are tight, but you can save money without having to live like a pauper.

Let us show you how to:

· Save Big Bucks on Groceries
· Slash Cable & Cell Phone Bills
· Cut Your Insurance Costs