We all know that our energy resources – coal, electricity, gas, and fuels, are not limitless, so it’s up to all of us to become energy wise. That means you, your family and your friends should all be as energy efficient as possible.

Energy is so much a part of our life that we often take if for granted, especially when it’s in the form of electricity. But the fact is electricity comes from burning fossil fuels like coal, gas or oil.

Energy costs money too, both for individuals and for the community. Using energy efficiently means you save on your energy bills, and it also means we can put off building new power stations.

So, saving energy makes environmental sense for us and for future generations. Here are the top 15 ways to save on energy and cents too.

1. Air conditioning: Cool your home at 78° or warmer with the thermostat fan switch on “auto.” For added savings, raise your thermostat to 82° or warmer when you’re away from home.
2. Don’t pre-rinse dishes before putting them in dishwasher. This can save you up to $70 a year.
3. Heat your home at 68° or cooler with the thermostat fan switch on “auto.” To save a bit more, lower your thermostat to 65° or cooler at bedtime or when you’re not home.
4. Limit the time you run your pool pump: Summer – run it no more than six hours a day. Winter – no more than four hours a day.
5. Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature automatically and maximize your energy savings. It also helps maintain a more comfortable household temperature.
6. Adjust the water level on your washing machine to match the load size, especially when using hot water. Always use a cold rinse.
7. Clean or replace your air conditioner’s filter every month to cut your cooling costs and help your unit run more efficiently.
8. Clean the lint filter in your dryer before every load to dry your clothes faster and save money.
9. Turn off your ceiling fan when you leave the room. A fan that runs constantly can cost up to $7 a month depending on size and age.
10. Use the auto sensor function on your dryer, if you have one, to conserve energy by not over-drying your clothes.
11. Insulating your water heater with a water heater jacket can keep heat from escaping. A water heater jacket is easy to install and can save hundreds of dollars on your energy bills over the lifetime of your water heater.
12. Make sure that you have adequate insulation in your attic; this can reduce your energy heating needs by up to 20 percent. Make sure that your attic is properly ventilated. If your insulation gets even slightly damp, it can lose as much as one third of its ability to insulate.
13. Keep the drapes and shades on the south side of your house open during the warmest part of the day in winter months to capture as much sunlight as possible. The sunlight will help warm your house and cut your energy costs. Close all your drapes and shades at night to keep the warm air inside your house.
14. Use long lasting compact fluorescent bulbs in your house. They require less power and can save you money on your electric bill.
15. Shut down stereo systems, TVs and computers when you are not using them. Most of these systems will continue to draw energy even when they’re idle. Install a power strip to easily shut down these systems and cut your energy costs.