2. Hang it up. Clotheslines are not just nostalgic, they actually work if the weather is cooperative. It will cost you time but not electric energy.
3. Don't over-dry laundry. Clothes need less ironing and hold up better if you remove them from the dryer while still just a bit damp.
4. Let the dishwasher do the work. Don't bother prerinsing dishes. Not doing this will save 20 gallons of heated water a day.
5. Put your PC to sleep. Keep your computer and monitor in sleep mode rather than leaving them on around the clock.
6. Turn down the heat in the winter and the cool in the summer. A 10 degree decrease in heat setting can save you 20% in energy costs just while you sleep at night. For every degree you turn your AC thermostat up in the summer, you save 3%.
7. A cold hearth for a warmer house. By closing in your natural draft fireplace with a glass door, you can save up to 70% of the drafting of heated air from your home if you use external combustion air for the fire.
8. Lower the shades and raise the windows. Not at the same time but of course but when weather conditions warrant.
9. Put a spin on home cooling. Operating a couple of ceiling fans uses a fraction of the electricity needed for air conditioning and the cooling effect should make it possible to raise your thermostat setting, saving 3% for every degree of upward setting.
10. Take care of your AC and it will take care of you. Routine preventative maintenance will make your AC unit more efficient, saving you money and increasing its life.
11. Spend less for hot water. Set the water heater for 120 degrees which will work in most conditions and save a bundle.
12. Think twice before turning on the oven. A microwave uses only 20% of the energy of a conventional oven.
13. Use the right pan. You use much less energy than you would think if you match the size of you pan to the size of the burner.
14. Read the label. Using a more efficient appliance for the job saves money every time it is used.
15. Dust off the Crock-Pot. Crock-Pot uses a lot less energy than simmering on the stove.
16. Clean the coils on your refrigerator using a tapered appliance brush. Your fridge's motor won't have to run as long or as often.
17. Drive steadily - and a bit slower. By driving 55 instead of 65, you can improve mileage by as much as 12.5%.
18. Roof racks are a drag. They can reduce your fuel efficiency by from 5 to 15%.
19. Stick with regular gas if your manufacturer recommends it. This can save you about 30 cents per gallon and will not reduce the efficiency or power of your car.
20. No loitering. Don't let the engine run at idle any longer than necessary. This is the most inefficient time for an engine to operate.
