Conserving energy is a big concern for most of us, but the solution isn’t as difficult as you may think. If you lived in a colder area such as Canada, even with regulated electric rates in Alberta conserving energy can still save you quite a bit of money throughout the year.

Tips on Saving Energy

1. Use your dryer less often

Whenever possible, hang dry your clothes to save electricity. As one of the most energy-intensive appliances, using it less often can save significantly on energy costs. Not only does it save energy, but it also prolongs the life of your clothing and can make them smell fresh without so many artificial scents.

2. Wash your dishes by hand

Another energy-intensive appliance, your dishwasher can conserve a decent amount of energy. While washing dishes by hand may not sound like a good time, if you do them before there’s a full sink of dirty dishes, you’ll be able to get through them at least a little more quickly. The energy conservation makes the extra work well worth it.

Also, read 3 Appliances You Must Have For A Greener Home

3. Replace your traditional incandescent light bulbs with an energy-efficient option

While they are less expensive to buy in a store, traditional incandescent light bulbs use more energy than the energy-efficient options and last significantly longer before having to be replaced. This makes the energy-efficient option the cost-efficient option, as well. The energy-efficient options include:

• halogen incandescent bulbs
• compact fluorescent lights (CFLs)
• light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs)

4. Unplug your electronics when they are not in use

A surprising fact to many, but your electronics still use energy if they are plugged in and not in use. You could have the power switched to ‘off’, and they’re still sucking energy.

If you don’t want to go through and unplug every electronic in your home, you could always invest in smart power strips, which can be programmed to stop all energy to electronics during certain times, when they aren’t in use, by using a remote switch, or by having a “master” electronic device that must be turned on for the others to use energy.

5. Turn your thermostat to a more energy-friendly temperature

In the winter, lower your thermostat a few degrees lower than what you normally would set it to. Layer your clothing or sit under a blanket to make up for those couple of degrees, and you’ll find yourself conserving a large amount of energy.

During the summertime, do the opposite with your thermostat. When your air conditioner is running, turn the thermostat up a few degrees and you’ll conserve energy in that way.

6. Replace your appliances

Older appliances tend to use more energy than newer, energy-efficient models. While you may pay more upfront for energy-efficient models, the operating costs are so much lower, that it’ll quickly make up for the price difference.

7. Replace your windows

If you have single-pane windows, this one is especially for you. Replacing single-pane windows with double-pane windows can save about 10-20% of heat loss. Additionally, having windows installed that have low e-coatings can keep heat inside during the winter and cool air inside during the summer.

To further the energy conservation in this area, consider putting up window shades, shutters, and screens. These options can all keep heat or cool air in, depending on the time of year.

8. Seal holes in your home

Check around your vents, windows, and doors for leaks that are causing an increase in your heating or cooling expenses. If you find any, seal them with caulk or weather-stripping. Other areas to check for leaks are around openings from plumbing, ductwork or electrical wiring.

If the leaks are occurring in your attic, it may be wise to completely insulate the space. Since heat rises, the amount of energy you use to heat your home would reduce significantly by insulating the attic and sealing any holes.

9. Consider better energy alternatives

Sometimes, even following energy efficiency tips doesn’t do the trick for conserving energy. If you find this to be a problem, renewable energy may be the answer. This is a better energy alternative because it doesn’t deplete the earth of natural resources and is essentially free.

These sources include:

• sunlight
• wind
• rain
• tides
• geothermal heat
• waves