1. Replace incandescent light bulbs with CFL bulbs, which use three-fourths less energy, and last up to 5 times longer.

2. Research your energy use history by looking up your account at nicorgas.com and exelonenergy.com. Start tracking how much you use, and set a target of reducing energy consumption by 25%. You’d be surprised how easy it is to achieve this reduction through the tips mentioned, as well as simply paying attention to usage, and urging family members to help.

3. Turn your thermostat down 2 degrees in winter, and up 2 degrees in summer, and install a programmable thermostat.

4. Set your hot water heater to 120 F. Wrap it in an insulated blanket for additional savings.

5. Unplug cell phone chargers, computers, TVs, DVRs, etc when not in use- they consume electricity whenever they are plugged in. OR plug into power strips that can be easily switched off.

6. Air dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher’s drying cycle. Take advantage of energy saving settings on other appliances as well.

7. Check your home for air leaks, and seal them with caulking, weather stripping or expanding foam. Especially inspect old windows and doors, attics, recessed lights, gaps around electrical outlets and plumbing penetrations, fireplaces, and appliance vents.

8. Have a professional energy audit conducted on your home and act on the recommendations.

9. If its time to replace appliances, windows, doors, or your HVAC system, do your homework, and buy the most energy efficient possible to save yourself money in the long run. Look for Energy Star products.

10. Have your heating and cooling systems tuned up fall and spring.


WEB SITES TO VISIT FOR MORE INFORMATION:
    
    www.energystar.gov
    www.smartenergyliving.org
    www.elpc.org
    www.treehugger.com
    www.nicorgas.com
    www.globalwarming.com
    www.gogreenwilmette.org