7/2/11

We all know that we should plug our televisions, DVD players and other entertainment devices into a power strip, so we can simply turn it off when we're not watching TV. But it can be a real pain to go behind all of this equipment to turn it off each time, so we forget or just don't bother. New power strips on the market now come with a remote control, meaning you simply flip a switch to completely shut off power to those devices, saving you money on your electrical bills.

7/1/11

If your home has central air-conditioning, invest in a programmable thermostat to keep the temperature consistent and to maximize the energy savings. One simple tip: Close the vents completely in rooms that are barely used in summer months, like a guest room. This will reroute cold air from those rooms into others and help improve the overall efficiency of your central air-conditioning.

6/30/11

If you have room air-conditioners, it's important to replace the filters. A clean filter helps increase airflow and gives you a better performing unit, thereby making the air-conditioner more energy efficient. For health benefits, a dirty filter also means you are recirculating harmful mold, mildew, dirt and debris throughout your home, especially after the unit has been turned off for months.