Top Ways to Save Electricity From USA Today

WINDOWS - First, using a compass if need to, identify which of your windows face south and which north. Install or use insulating shades on those windows to slow the loss of energy and to keep heat in, or out.

You should close and open windows and shades to help cool or heat the house, depending your geographical location and season.

For example, in the south, thermal shades will work best on the outside of the building, for a cooling effect in hot climates. They do need to be made of materials that stand up to UV rays. However, in the north, the shades work best on the inside, for keeping heat in the building.

APPLIANCES - Taking good care of your household appliances has a big payoff. Clean your refrigerator's ventilation grill. Have your furnace, boiler, air conditioning units and clothes dryer serviced thoroughly, especially if there are any unusual noises emanating from any of them.

RECYCLE HEAT - Here is a good way to save during wintertime. Recycle your heated clothes-dryer exhaust through an appropriate filter into your house. It is so simple to do. Just go to the local hardware store and ask for a bypass filter, which is an 8-inch cube. You then just need a screwdriver and the instructions will always be right on the package. The bypass will helps heat and humidify the house, while the filter will still prevents dust and lint from getting into the air you breathe."

WEATHERSTRIP -Weatherstripping should be the first line of defense, whether in the sun belt or snow belt, so save energy and electricity.

By weatherstrip every window and door in your house, the difference this makes is amazing if you have never tried it. Also be sure to check heat loss through mechanical chases, mail slots, chimney flues and electrical outlets on exterior walls. The reality is, you lose far more energy and heat from your house through air leakage than from anything else.