Time may be growing short to save the planet from the destructive effects of climate change. Countries need to work together to address global issues, for certain. Just as importantly, at local levels, homeowners can find ways to do their part by cutting back on energy usage. From a simple, cost-free solution to expensive fixes, try out these energy-reducing measures to reduce your carbon footprint.

Control Your Thermostat

During the 1970s, shortages of oil supplies in parts of the world caused populations to change their habits to deal with rising heating costs. One thrifty practice that came into play then and that you can still engage in now focuses on your temperature-control units. Adjusting your thermostat so that your home is three degrees warmer in the summer and equally cooler in the winter will significantly reduce the hours your heater and air conditioner operate throughout the year.

Put a Stake Through Vampire Power 

A walk through your house will likely turn up a significant number of what are termed energy vampire electronics. These are items ranging from microwave ovens to cable boxes that quietly pull electricity while plugged in but not in active use. Some of these you can unplug until needed. Use a power strip that you can turn off rather than unplugging individual accessories.

Maintain Your Appliances

You can further keep a handle on your energy consumption by keeping gas and certain electric appliances and equipment in your home operating at peak efficiency. Start by having your heating and air conditioning systems inspected and serviced every year; make certain that technicians change air filters and vacuum heat exchange pipes as part of the tune-up. They should also examine connected peripherals such as the ac disconnect at the air conditioner compressor or the gas shut-off valve to the boiler for safety reasons.

You can take care of some tasks yourself: vacuum the coils at the bottom or in the back of your refrigerator to remove dust and adjust the flames of your gas stove following the instructions in its user manual.

Fix Water Drips and Leaks

Over time, faucets can start to drip and toilets can begin to run. These actions can be incredibly wasteful; the United States Environmental Protection Agency notes that the average household can leak 10,000 gallons of water annually under these conditions. To repair the condition in toilets, you will likely need to replace the parts in the tank. You can fix dripping faucets by replacing washers unless the unit is washerless, in which case you likely will have to replace the entire faucet and handle assembly.

Close up Air Leaks

Unintended air exchange in your home can force your heating and cooling equipment to work overtime. In the summer you want to keep the cool air in and the hot air out, while the reverse is true in the winter. To minimize hot and cool air loss, insulate the attic and seal cracks or splits around doors and windows.

Recycle Inefficient Appliances

Even if you maintain your air conditioner, heater and stove, as they age they wear and become less efficient. At the same time, appliances are continually manufactured to use less energy than previous models. Consider slowly replacing aged appliances with newer Energy Star certified products.

Replace Windows

One of the greatest sources of heat loss in the home is through single-pane windows. Even older homes with added storm windows improve upon these. Replace these old windows with new double-pain units that put up a barrier against the elements. Keep in mind, this energy-saving step may be the most costly of the ones listed.

You do not have to spend a great deal of money to reduce your energy consumption, though you can for the best results. However, by investing now, you can reduce costs in the long run while doing your part to save the planet.