by Erin LaBuda
 
In the climate of rising gas prices, higher energy bills and general concern about our environment, many people are looking to reduce their energy consumption while saving some of that other green. Below you will find 5 money & energy saving tips that will help you not only to live smarter but also greener.
 
1) Switch to Compact Florescent Lightbulbs (CFL’s) – At an affordable $2/bulb a CFL will save an average of $30 in energy bills over the course of its life due to the fact that it lasts 10x longer than incandescent bulbs.
 
2) Monitor your thermostat – Make the commitment to keep your thermostat set 2 degrees lower in the cooler months and 2 degrees higher in the warmer months. This simple change will save you an average of $100/yr on your energy bill and 1 ton of greenhouse gases that you would have otherwise emitted into the atmosphere.
 
3) Change your furnace filter – A mechanical that is dirty has to work harder to keep the temperature at the desired temperature. Changing your filter every 2 months could save you up to $150/yr on your energy bill.
 
4) Unplug Idle Appliances – You can save up to several hundred dollars/yr just by unplugging appliances that are not being used. Just because the toaster is not toasting does not mean it’s not using valuable energy. Unplug it after each use.
 
5) Buy local and buy in season – It’s not always the most convenient way to shop but if you think about how many miles your carrots traveled to get to the supermarket and the amount of greenhouse gases that were released in the environment because of that trip you may think twice. By purchasing locally, you are keeping money in your regional economy while contributing to the reduction of pollution.
 
For more money saving and earth saving tips check out www.lighterfootstep.com