Energy efficiency begins with you! You can take some simple steps to reduce your impact on the environment, not to mention your wallet. Use these low or no-cost energy saving tips to turn your home into a model of efficiency. When you have an energy-efficient home, you'll not only keep your family comfortable, but you’ll also save money.

Heating and Cooling

• During summer, set your thermostat between 78 and 80 degrees when at home and above 80 degrees when away.
• Clean or replace air filters once a month to keep your HVAC running efficiently.
• Install a programmable thermostat to manage your heating and cooling more efficiently.
• Turn off kitchen, bath and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you're finished cooking or bathing.
• Clean out your HVAC with a garden hose.
• Supplement your air conditioning with ceiling fans to increase comfort.

Appliances

• Open your refrigerator door as seldom as possible.
• Keep your refrigerator between 36 and 38 degrees and set your freezer between 0 and 5 degrees.
• When washing clothes, wash a full load and use cold water whenever possible.
• Hang your clothes to dry, when possible, to save energy.
• Wait until you have a full load to run the dishwasher and let your dishes air dry.
• Use an outdoor grill in summer months to keep your kitchen cooler.
• When replacing appliances, look for ENERGY STAR-rated products.

Electronics

• Plug home electronics like TVs, stereos and DVD players into power strips that can be turned off when the electronics are not in use.
• Use low-power mode for computers and phones.

Lighting

• Replace incandescent bulbs with CFL or LED bulbs, which last up to 10 times longer and use 75 percent less energy.
• Purchase ENERGY STAR-qualified fixtures.
• Use natural lighting whenever possible.
• Use timers and dimmers to lower light levels and reduce energy use.

Water

• Lower the temperature on your water heater to "warm".
• Take shorter showers and use low-flow showerheads.
• Repair leaky faucets immediately.
• Use low-flow toilets to reduce water usage.

Windows and Doors

• During these hot months, keep window coverings closed on south, east and west windows.
• Keep windows and doors closed when using an air conditioner or heater.
• Caulk and weather strip doors and windows.
• Consider installing low-E windows, which can reduce heat loss by up to 50 percent.