Electricity demands are high in the average household and taking steps to reduce your electricity use and conserve the electricity you do consume will help towards saving on monthly utility bills. Electricity is primarily generated by burning fossil fuels which contribute to pollution, greenhouse gases and global warming so cutting back on electricity use will also help reduced damage to the atmosphere.

Many households can achieve electricity saving by adopting a few simple lifestyle changes that cost little or nothing in capital investment. By selected a few of these electricity saving tips, you will reduce expenses and do your part to protect the planet.

Tip #1: Survey your home and make a list of areas where you notice cracks, holes and other leaks. If your house feels drafty, you notice mold, mildew or a musty odor, your home is excessively dusty or you see condensation, then chances are your home is not properly sealed. Once your list is compiled you can begin filling cracks and holes with caulk, spray foam or weather stripping. If you aren’t able to do it yourself, your local electricity provider can help you contact a professional energy auditor to perform a comprehensive assessment. By following through on the recommendations of an audit you will achieve electricity efficiency and savings.

Tip #2: Saving energy means not only using less (reduction) but making the most of what you have (conservation). Sufficient insulation that is properly installed will help you save electricity, lower your bills and be more comfortable in your home. Walls, ceilings, floors, attics and crawl spaces are areas where a thick layer of insulation is needed.

Tip #3: Using appliances properly and sparingly is important to saving electricity. Make sure to only run dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers when they are full and make sure they are properly maintained. Invest in energy-efficient appliances that run on less electricity that older models.

Tip #4: Turn down the thermostat in the winter and turn it up in the summer. Once your home is properly insulated and sealed you will really increase your electricity savings and your home will feel comfortable at these adjusted levels. A programmable thermostat will regulate the temperature throughout the day eliminating wasteful heating and cooling when you’re not home. Using ceiling fans and space heaters might seem like an extra electricity use, but is more cost effective than engaging your heating and air conditioning systems.

Tip #5: Common sense habits like turning off lights when you leave the room are simple ways to increase electricity saving. Rather than lighting up an entire room, use reading lamps and task lighting whenever possible. Don’t leave electronic devices like televisions, computers and gaming systems on when you are not using them. Some high-tech devices are sensitive to changes in energy but if it is safe to do so, unplug electronics when not in use. Low-tech small appliances like toasters and coffee makers should always be unplugged after use for saving electricity and money.

If you decide to switch energy companies see if there is deregulation in your state. Shopping for electric prices