Along with learning to fix things in my first home, I have been researching the “little things” that I can do to help keep my energy bills (gas and hydro) down. There is nothing new to report here but reiterating never hurt…

1. Insulate your walls and ceilings. Good insulationin your attic makes a huge difference.
2. Seal any large cracks around your doors and windows.
3. Use light dimmer switches. Dimming a bulb by 25% uses 10% less power.
4. Put a timer on outside lights.
5. Use a thermostat to turn down the heat at night and when you are away.
6. Wash your clothes in warm or cold water. Rinse in cold water.
7. Turn off unused machines, including your computer.
8. Put compact fluorescent light bulbs in high-use areas.
9. When replacing old appliances, purchase energy-efficient ones.
10. Only run your dishwasher with a full load.
11. Add insulation to your water heater and any exposed pipes (unless the manufacturer specifically forbids this).
12. Keep the hot-water thermostat at 49C.
13. Clean or replace your furnace and air-conditioner air filters.

Thanks to Green Living Magazine for the tips!