You’ve heard about the detrimental effects of global warming and want to play your part in saving the planet. But knowing exactly how to do this can be difficult. Luckily, we’ve found some cheaper and easier ways to reduce your energy usage and utility costs. Even if you’re a landlord trying to save energy (and some money), AAMGT.com thinks these ways can work for you too.

Switch off Electrical Appliances and Lights When You Aren’t Using Them

Before leaving the house and going to bed, turn off your lights, cooling units, heater, and other electrical appliances. Turning these things off will help you save power. Also, switch off your computer overnight or while you’re away.

Replace the Light Bulbs

Incandescent light bulbs are installed in a lot of old properties. These things consume a scary amount of electricity. So take a look at what light bulbs you’re using in your home. Energy-efficient globes can save up to 80% off a homeowner’s lighting costs. So although LED bulbs are expensive, their longer service and efficient energy use mean they’ll cost you less in the long run.

Close Curtains and Shut Doors

You can do some simple things to reduce the costs of cooling and heating without making your life uncomfortable. Shut doors to the areas of your home that you aren’t using and only heat or cool the rooms where your family spends the most time. During winter, make sure to properly seal your windows with blinds or curtains. In hot summer months, don’t open your curtains during the day and keep the sun off the windows of your home with canvas awnings or external blinds. This way your house will remain cooler.

Purchase Energy Efficient Electrical Appliances

Electrical appliances are responsible for about 13% of your entire household energy use. So when you’re buying an appliance, pay attention to the initial price as well as the annual operating cost. Energy efficient appliances generally have higher prices, but their operating costs are much lower, which will save you money in the long run.

Compare Energy Offers

One of the best ways to reduce utility bills is to compare electricity offers. Review your current electricity plan and visit iSelect to compare it to other plans in the market. Switching provider could save you a lot of money.

As you can see from our discussion, you don’t have to spend a fortune to save energy at home and reduce your carbon footprint. You can easily reduce your energy usage and utility costs by doing these simple things.