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- Dark “sun screen” for your home cost a little more up front than regular screens, but they will pay for themselves in the long run, especially if you live in a hot climate. My electric bill was $200 cheaper than my neighbors.
- If your buying a home, keep in mind that the less roof area, the less it cost to keep it cool. So two-story homes cost less to cool than one-story homes with the same square footage.
- Every time you run your dryer, it costs about $1 per load. When you have the time, line drying is great for the environment and your wallet.
- When looking for new appliances, look for ones that have earned the ENERGY STAR. They will be the most efficient.
- Unplug any appliances you are not using on a regular basis. Even when they are not operating, they use energy if they are plugged in.
- Lower the temperature on your hot water heater thermostat. 120 degrees provides comfortable hot water for most uses. Also this will help prevent children getting burned by too hot water.
- Take more showers than baths. Bathing uses the most hot water in most households.
- Are you changing jobs? Always roll over your retirement plan! If you cash it out you will pay a large penalty.
- Air-dry your dishes.
- Turn your thermostat up when you leave the house. However, if you live in a humid climate, do not turn it off. Mold will grow in a hot, humid climate.
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