There are some common sense approaches like shutting off lights when you leave the room, turning down the thermostat, and generally, turning off what you really don't need, especially when you are leaving the house for an extended period of time.
I know these things seem simple, and they are, but try them and see what the savings adds up to. Along with these tips, one more that just makes great sense is to plug your electronic devices (TV's, computers, printers, scanners, fax machines, stereos, DVD players, sound bars, and charging cords of all kinds) to a power strip. You see, the idea is that when you aren't using one or a combination of these devices, you can simply turn off the switch to the power strip and it cuts the power to all of the devices plugged into it. That way, you won't have to individually unplug each item.
Although you may turn something off, like a TV, there is still a draw of power to run things like the internal clock, memory, etc.. and these things do draw power. By simply flipping the switch to the power strip, the savings of a few of these devices can add up to a big savings in your pocketbook!
Besides their value as power savers, you can also upgrade to smart power strips or surge protectors, for home or when you travel, that will protect your delicate devices against power line surges and power bumps. Although the better ones can cost upwards of $100, you have to take into account the cost of each of the devices plugged into the surge protector and the amount of devices that are being protected by just one surge protector. The cost is then minimal per unit plugged into it. Be smart and protect these fagile devices and save on your energy costs by implementing a smarter and safer approach. Use a surge protector.
Before I rush off to turn my favorite electronic devices off, let me give you another tip that you may have not considered or thought about. Have you ever considered placing any or all of these devices on a timer? You can set a timer to turn on at a certain time and then turn off the devices at another. Let's say you want to watch TV in bed from 10PM to 11PM. Simply set the timer to the current time, then set the timer on and off tabs, and you have an automated power supply. Now I know the timer does draw power, but it does have its advantages and it will turn off even if you fall asleep. It works for other devices like light, fountains, and swimming pool pumps. The point is, keep looking for new ways to save energy and you'll find more money in your pocket at the end of the day.
