Although my blog mostly focuses on Greener TechServices, in the past I have been asked by followers for tips on how they can reduce their energy usage costs and thus lower their carbon footprint. in their home. For this reason, I wanted to dedicate one blog to this topic.

When it comes to the environment, being an earth friendly citizen really begins at your front door. The benefits to greening your home are numerous and can make a direct impact to your health, financial and also the environment. For those of you feeling overwhelmed with where to begin, in what seems to be an arduous task. Don’t stress! The answer is simple and becomes much easier to grasp when broken down into steps. After careful research and consideration, I’ve put together my list of Top Ten things you can do right now, that for little effort will go a long way in reducing your energy costs and carbon foot print. Let’s have a look, shall we?

 1. Switch to Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Using Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs in the home can have a dramatic impact in reducing your energy costs. Although the initial costs of the bulbs are a bit more costly than standard incandescent bulbs, the savings in the long run far outweigh the cost! Swapping 5 of the most used bulbs in your home can have reduce your electric bill by $100 per year. You be the judge.

2. Install a programmable thermostat.

Programmable thermostats typically have 3 or more standard settings; morning noon and night. This allows you to dial-down the heat when you are away from your home or do not require it to be so warm, such as when you are sleeping. Most units come with easy to follow directions. I know what you’re thinking. No, you do not need to be a licensed electrician to install!

3. Go Low Flow

Install an efficient low flow shower head. Often times they get a bad rap due to the lower amount of water volume; an efficient shower head has the potential to save over $300.00 per year!  Install a low-flow toilet. Newer toilets generally only use 1.6 gallons of water flush, as compared to models made in 1994 and earlier that use 3.5 gallons per flush. For older model toilets you can adjust the ball float in the toilet to allow less water to enter the tank.

4. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate

Insulation that is installed correctly can also decrease your energy costs. Since most heat loss occurs in your attic, start there. Ensure there are no gaps of missing insulation. If you find a piece of insulation that is damaged, consider replacing it.

5. Insulate your Hot Water Heater

If you don’t already have one, consider wrapping your hot water heater with an insulation jacket. Insulation jackets are inexpensive and can be purchased for around $25. Also ensuring your hot water heater temperature is set at 120 degrees, will not only reduce your energy costs but prevent scalding.

6. Plug up the Leaks

Air leaks in your home are considered to be one of the biggest forms of energy waste and yet the simplest to fix. Installing weather stripping and caulking around windows, doors and outlets can make a dramatic impact in reducing your energy costs and carbon footprint. If your windows are very leaky, consider covering them up with plastic sheeting.

7. Unplug the Energy Hogs

In an average home 75% of all electricity used to power devices is used while the devices are turned off! These include such items as laptop, cell phones, PDA’s the list is endless. A good rule of thumb here is, if you’re not using or charging your device, unplug it.

8. Green Up your appliances

Toss that old refrigerator in the garage that is rarely used. According to the Environmental Protection Agency secondary Refrigerators and Freezers over 10 years old can cost you as much as $150 a year! When purchasing a new refrigerator or freezer, ensure it has the “Energy Star” logo on it.

9. Save Water

Installing an aerator on all household faucets can cut your water consumption by as much as 50%! Install a low-flow. Turning off the water when you brush your teeth can save 4-5 gallons of water each time.

10. Get a Tune Up

Tuning up your HVAC, is important not only in reducing your energy usage but for your health as well! Hire a professional to tune your HVAC system every 2 years. The service will run you about $150 but in the long run will save you 5% to 10% on your annual heating and cooling costs. One thing you can do is replace the filter every month. A dirt filter will block the airflow running to your home and can significantly the systems efficiency.