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Save the planet and $50 a month on utility bills

Karl Fendelander | Improvement Center Columnist | December 19, 2012

You don't have to live like a monk to cut your utility bills. A few small changes and some vigilance can save you at least $50 a month. Just mouse over the illustrations below for recommendations on how to save energy, along with estimates on the monthly cost savings associated with each action.

  • Save $7.50 a month by turning off your computer every night before bed.
    Or
    Save $8 a month by unplugging devices when they're not in use.
  • Save $5 a month by turning your coffee maker off once your coffee's brewed.
  • Save $5 a month by unplugging game systems when not in use.
  • Save up to $7.50 a month by switching to LED bulbs.
  • Save $15 a month by upgrading to a new, Energy Star certified refrigerator.
  • Save $16 a month by replacing any second refrigerator with a new model.
  • Save $15 a month by upgrading to a programmable, digital thermostat.
  • Save $15 a month by upgrading to a programmable, digital thermostat.
  • Save $83 a month by using a space heater instead of central heating.
  • Save $33 a month by using ceiling fans instead of air conditioning.
  • Save $15 a month by sealing up your air ducts.
  • Save $15 a month by replacing old windows.
  • Save $8 - $20 a month by planting trees to block the wind and sun.
  • Save $2.50 a month by wrapping your water heater in insulation.
  • Save $25 a month by installing faucet aerators.
  • Save $25 a month by installing a low-flow shower head.
  • Save $12 a month by changing the temperature setting to cold.
  • Save $41 a month by switching to a solar water heater.
Three Easy Ways to Save $50 a Month
Monthly Savings
 
 
 
 
Monthly Savings
 
 
 
 
Monthly Savings
 
 
 

An extra fifty bucks every month is nothing to turn your nose up at. Instead of letting that money go down the drain, fly out the window or burn up in your furnace, you could put it to good, eco-friendly use without dramatically changing the way you live.

For more information on saving energy, see our in-depth article: 5 tips for slashing utility bills

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