There are two reasons why everybody should consider ways of cutting back on energy expenses. The first is money saving, while the other is that by doing so, you are helping conserve the future of the planet. As you consume less energy, you are slowing down the depletion of natural resources, especially the non-renewable, as well as reduce your contribution to global warming by adopting a smaller carbon footprint. This helps make the world a more habitable place as we move towards an already compromised future.

Contrary to what you may think, you do not have to make great sacrifices in order to reduce your energy expenses. Here are some simple ways.

1. Power down appliances that are not being used

This tip is built on the simple principle of turning things off when not using them. The simplest way of putting this into practice is to make it a habit to turn out the lights and cooling when you are leaving a room. Take this principle a step forward by applying it to the habit of having things on standby. Most people tend to leave the power switch on even when they are not being used. This hogs a lot of power without any tangible benefit. Turn the main power supply off from appliances when done with using them. Unplug chargers when not charging. Use the power management setting on your computer so that it goes into hibernation if not used for a significant period of time.

2. A couple of degrees up or down can result in assured savings

Set your heating thermostats a couple of degree lower and your cooling thermostats a couple of degrees higher on all your heating and cooling appliances. This is applied to air cooling, room heaters, geysers, dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerators. This marginal change in temperature will not result in any perceptible physical discomfort, any food spoilage or poorer quality of washes, but it will lead to a very large amount of savings at the end of the month.

3. Use energy efficiency principles for all your appliances

Older appliances are consumption traps as far as electricity usage goes. As appliances grow older, they tend to become less efficient. In addition, most of the newer appliances are designed from an eco friendly perspective keeping the aspect of optimum energy-efficiency in mind. The first task here is to try and replace all appliances with the newer energy-efficient ones that come with certified ratings. You can target doing this in bits and pieces, replacing older appliances one at a time as your budget permits. Moreover, a task as simple as replacing old parts can save energy and money. In the meantime, you can inculcate simple habits to minimize wastage with your existing appliances. Use the microwave instead of the oven for warming up smaller quantities of food. Don’t preheat the even beyond the first time that the thermostat cuts off the heat. Use full loads for your washing machine and dishwasher.

4. Drive intelligently to maximize fuel efficiency

Walk or use public transport whenever possible. Join a carpool, or start one if it is not there in your neighborhood. Find ways of clubbing multiple trips into one. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure in order to reduce drag and loss of mileage. Drive at a steady pace and avoid frequent acceleration and deceleration. Learn to use the brakes sparingly so that you don’t lose out on the fuel you have already spent to build up momentum.

5. Use natural energy sources wherever possible

Make the maximum use of available natural sources of energy. Dry your clothes in sunlight rather than in a dryer. Keep your windows and doors open to allow for natural light and air to illuminate and ventilate your home whenever possible. Use natural warmth to bring things to room temperature, whether out of the refrigerator or the oven. Plan your meals cook in advance, so that you don’t waste energy heating up things that you have recently cooled down, and vice versa.

All of these are simple steps that you can take in your daily life. If you put all of these tips into action, you will be surprised at the difference in your utility bill at the end of the month. In addition, you will have the satisfaction of having done your bit to make the planet a greener, cleaner and cooler place for your future generations.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

About the author: Alia Haley is a blogger who is a firm supporter of green living and follows it religiously. Being a car lover, she is big fan of the cars based on the concept of green design.