There are many ways homeowners can control the ever increasing amount of energy they use in their home. Here are a few simple steps do-it-yourselfers can tackle and a few to leave up to the professionals. All will save you money.

An annual tune-up and inspection of your heating system by a professional can provide significant savings. Losses from a poorly maintained system can accumulate over time. One easy way to maintain the efficiency of your heating/cooling system is by regularly changing or cleaning the filter. Heating and cooling losses in duct systems are also common. Sealing and insulating ducts can save serious dollars.

This also applies to hot water heating systems with un-insulated piping that can contribute to heat loss. Wrap all of your hot water pipes with inexpensive pipe insulation found at any home improvement store. Don’t forget to check the temperature setting on your hot water heater. The temperature should never be set above 120 degrees. This will decrease the likelihood of burns from scalding water and save you money.

Programmable thermostats are an excellent method of controlling temperatures during off peak usage. Turning down the temperature by two degrees while your away or asleep can save you as much as 10% off your bill.

Install insulated shades or heavy drapery on windows to reduce drafts and help retain interior heat.

Probably the easiest change you can make to reduce your energy bill is switching your light bulbs from incandescent to fluorescent. CFL’s or compact fluorescent bulbs use 2/3 less energy and last ten times longer.

Turn off your dishwasher once the auto dry cycle begins. Residual heat built up during the wash cycle will air dry them instead and save you money.

Use cold water to wash the majority of your clothes. Today’s highly concentrated detergents can clean even the brightest whites in cold water.

Improve your windows. Energy efficient windows can save you up to 30% on heating/cooling costs. If you have single pane windows consider replacing them with low E coated or Energy Star units. Storm windows can reduce your winter heat loss by as much as 50%.