10 Insulation

On average, households lose about 20 percent of their heated and cooled air to the outside through the duct system. To avoid wasting energy, have your ducts inspected to ensure they’re sealed properly and insulated if necessary.

9 Cooling and heating

Programmable thermostats can save up to $150 a year on energy costs. Use a thermostat that can automatically turn off your cooling system when you are not home and turn back on when you arrive home.

8 Manage water use

Use low-flow faucets and shower heads to save on water bills and conserve water. Heating the water in a washer uses 90 percent of the energy used to wash clothes. Washing your clothes in cold water can also save you $63 per year.

7 Unplug Everything 

Save money and energy by unplugging electronics and appliances you’re not using. Leaving a computer on all day can cost about 21 cents per day, or about $75 per year. An easy way to follow this tip is by using multiple-outlet strips, which can turn everything off with the flip of a switch.

6 Eliminate water bottles 

Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water. Not only is bottled water expensive, but it generates large amounts of container waste. Use a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminum rather than plastic.

5 Switch out bulbs

Switch to new and improved light bulbs. Reduce energy use from about a third to as much as 80 percent with energy-efficient halogen incandescents, CFLs and LEDs.

4 Buy in bulk 

Purchasing food from bulk bins can save money and packaging. Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products. You won’t have to replace items as frequently and this also means less waste.

3 Use less energy

By using the microwave, toaster or a countertop grill rather than an oven, you’ll use less energy and avoid excess heat that increases room temperature. Placing lamps or TV sets near your room air-conditioning ducts can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary because the thermostat senses heat from the appliances. Set them apart and save energy.

2 Electronics

Recycle your cell phones and electronics. Donate or recycle them responsibly when the time comes. E-waste contains mercury and other toxics and is a growing environmental problem.

1 Light conservation

During daylight hours rely on the natural lighting instead of turning on the lights on around the house. Keeping the lights off can help you conserve energy and save on your electric bill.