The right light: We all know turning off lights when we leave the room can save energy and money. Using the right light bulb will make those savings go even further.



Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights bulbs (CFLs).In addition to using 75% less energy than regular bulbs, CFLs last longer and save you money. You can expect to save about $30 in energy costs over a bulb's lifetime.

Pull the plug: Electric devices, even when they are switched off, still use power. This phenomenon is called “phantom” or “vampire” power. Added together, phantom power from appliances like cell phone chargers, printers, DVD players and flat screen TVs can add 10% to your residential power costs. Yes, that comes from that little light that shows they are ready to be used at your command. Unplug these devices when you're not using them. And don't leave the computer on all night to complete downloads.

Use a power bar: An easier way to combat the “phantom” power menace? Plug appliances into a common power bar. One flick of the switch turns off up to six appliances at once. Some power bars even have “smart” outlets, which will leave selected appliances on while powering down the others that must be kept on.

Wash cold: 90% of the energy involved in doing laundry goes to heating the water. Washing your clothes on cold is one of the easiest ways to cut down on costs and electricity. An added bonus: it keeps your colours brighter as well.

Hang to dry: The other laundry energy sucker? The dryer. Hang clothes to dry outside in the summer time. In the winter, a simple drying rack in the laundry room will do the trick. Ditching the dryer in the summer alone can save you more than $40.

Plug the leaks: That draughty window in the living room is making your furnace work overtime. A quick trip to the hardware store will get you all you need to fix the problem. The other areas where leaks are common are in faucets and showerheads. Taking the time to tighten them up will save water and money over time. Want added savings? Install low-flow showerheads and faucets while you're at it.

Turn it down: Reducing the temperature on your thermostat by just one or two degrees can save you as much as 15% on your heating bill. Turning down the temperature a little more when you're out of the house goes even further. If you're forgetful, try installing a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature for the time of day.

Plant a garden: Even small plants can save you several trips to the grocery store as well as the fossil fuels burned in transporting food. In the summer, it's easy to sprinkle a few seeds to grow your own veggies. A few simple herbs like chives, parsley and mint practically grow themselves. Add a couple of lettuce plants for a complete DIY salad in your own back yard.