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The average North American household spends $1500 annually on energy bills, a number that may go up as much as 50 percent this year. In the face of higher energy costs this winter, improving energy efficiency is more important than ever to homeowners. Here are some simple and inexpensive steps you can take to make your home more energy efficient. Why not start this weekend?

Furnace Care

Dirty furnace filters impede air flow and can also affect indoor air quality. Replace your furnace filters or clean them as needed, following the manufacturer’s instructions. The furnace won’t need to work as hard to deliver heat where it’s needed. Also consider installing a programmable thermostat, which will lower the heat at night or when no one is home.

Bundle Up

If you have a tank-style water heater, wrap it in an insulation blanket to prevent needless energy loss.

Change a light bulb

Replace the five most frequently used lights in your home with LED or CFL light bulbs and save more than $60 each year in energy costs.

Power Down

Put electronics such as computers and televisions on a power strip and turn it off when you’re not using those items. Consider “smart” power strips that can detect when an item is turned off but still drawing idle current; the strip will automatically shut off the current to selected outlets on the strip.

Seal Drafts

Seal holes, cracks and openings in your home to stop heat loss through the walls and ceiling.

Use Energy Star®

Energy Star® products help you save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Energy Star® label is on more than 40 different kinds of products for the home, including lighting, home electronics, heating and cooling equipment and appliances.

Fill it Up

Run washers and dryers at full capacity. They are most efficient when they are fully loaded.

Use Your Dishwater

You’ll use up to 35 percent less water by doing a full load of dishes vs. washing them by hand – and use less energy for water heating, too.

Source: soldbycynthiajones.com