You don’t have to install a wind turbine in the backyard or solar panels on your roof for a more energy efficient home. It really can be as simple as making a few changes here and there.

Some things are easy enough to do in an hour or two, others will take more time, but watch the savings mount up and you’re sure to be looking for more ways to “go green”.

	Switch from regular incandescent light bulbs to Tungsten halogen or high-efficiency fluorescent. Both last significantly longer than regular incandescent lights and reduce lighting energy costs.
	Buy programmable timers for your thermostats.
	Wrap your hot water heater in a hot water heater insulation kit and save significantly on water heating costs.
	Maintain appliances, such as your furnace and air conditioner. This will ensure they are working to maximum efficiency.
	When you buy a new appliance, such as a dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, washing machine or clothes dryer, make sure to buy an energy efficient model. Look for appliances with the Energy Star® label. Although they can be more expensive, you will reap savings for years to come. They are also attractive selling features if you are considering selling your home in the future.
	If your refrigerator or freezer is more than ten years old, replace it. Refrigerators and freezers are two of the most significant energy-consuming appliances. Only comfort conditioning (heating and cooling) and water heating use more energy. Improvements in the design of compressors and cooling coils, better insulation and tighter door seals all contribute to much higher efficiencies of newer models.
	Cold air can seep into your home in a number of ways, making the room feel drafty and uncomfortable. Doors and windows are two of the most obvious areas of concern but there are any number of ways air can leak into your home. To combat this problem seal all air leaks in windows, walls (including electrical outlets), ceiling and floors. You’ll improve the comfort of your home and reduce heating and cooling costs.
	Add insulation to your attic or consider improving the insulation that is already there. Insulating with loose-fill fiberglass and cellulose or fiberglass batt insulation is relatively inexpensive, will most likely pay for itself in two to eight years, depending on the situation. Talk to an insulation contractor to find out what your options are.
	The typical home loses more than 25 percent of its heat through windows. Replace older windows with energy-efficient windows, preferably with a low-E coating and argon gas fill. They cost more but you will immediately feel the difference. Be sure to have them properly installed by a trained professional though, otherwise they may still leak.
	Replace old exterior doors with insulated steel ones.
	Improve the indoor air quality by purchasing quiet and efficient ventilation fans to control moisture and air quality in the bathroom.
	Consult a professional. Many localities have energy specialists who will come to your home and do an analysis of its energy performance. These trained consultants will be able to do a thorough check on all current and potential problems for your home

For more information on home energy savings visit the Energy Star® website.