7 Easy Ways to Save Energy

You don't have to completely retrofit your home to save energy. In fact, some of the most effective ways to go green are also some of the easiest. If you're ready to give back to Mother Earth, here are just seven ways to reduce your energy consumption.

1. Utilize Your Windows

Instead of reaching for the thermostat every time you're uncomfortable, try opening the windows instead. If you're hot, a breeze will filter in and cool you down; if you're cold, a tightly-sealed window will better trap the heat.

2. Shorten Your Showers

If you can shave just one minute off your morning showers, you'll save thousands of gallons of water a year. It's as easy as washing your hair more quickly or using a two-in-one shampoo/conditioner instead of putting them on separately.

3. Support Local Stores

Embrace farmer's markets and mom-and-pop shops. In addition to pumping money back into the local economy, you'll also stop contributing to the carbon emissions let off by trucks, ships and planes as they ship distant goods to your community.

4. Buy Energy-Saving Appliances

The next time you're in the market for a new dishwasher, look for something with the Energy Star logo. Not only will you save water and energy with a specially-made product, but you might even be eligible for a rebate.

5. Clean Your Filters

When's the last time you cleaned your air conditioner filters? The dirtier they are, the more your unit has to compensate, and that's power going completely to waste. Clean your filters and you'll save massive amounts of energy that used to go towards overcompensation.

6. Do Your Laundry Wisely

Don't turn on the washing machine unless you have a full load. Don't dry your clothes in the dryer if you can hang them up. These are simple practices that can save you a lot of power in the long run.

7. Change Your Light Bulbs

If you're still using halogen bulbs, it's time to join the revolution and switch to compact florescent lights (CFLs). They're much more efficient, and they last longer to boot.

These are just a few ways to do your part for the environment. As you can see, they're all much easier than popular opinion would lead you to believe, so there's no excuse not to start implementing them right away. Visit a site like Compare Texas Energy Providers (http://www.comparetexasenergyproviders.com/) to learn more.