If you are like most people today, your home electric use is one of the biggest contributors to your overall carbon footprint. The increased demands of tech devices and electronics can quickly add up. At the same time, your utility bills can escalate to a point where you dread opening them each month. Whether you have been spending more time at homes and are looking to keep your electric bill under control, or you have simply turned an eye toward the environmental benefits of energy conservation, you can take simple steps that have a big impact on your energy use. 

1. Replace Light Bulbs

LED light bulbs are a huge energy saver, especially if you spend a substantial amount of time at home. According to Energy.gov, they use about 25% of the electricity required to power traditional incandescent bulbs. Not only that, but they also last up to 25 times longer- meaning you won't have to run out and get new ones every year or so. You'll save on the cost of replacement bulbs and the tie it would have taken to change them out. While you don't have to run right out and buy new light bulbs, it doesn't hurt to make plans for when your current ones need to be replaced. 

2. Adjust Temperatures

Heating and cooling your home make up the bulk of your utility usage. That leaves a wide opening for energy savings. Just how much can you save by adjusting your thermostat? The department of energy estimates that a seven- to ten-degree adjustment over eight hours of each day can result in about a 10% reduction in energy costs. That can add up to a substantial savings of electricity and money over the course of a year. 

Your HVAC system isn't the only place where a temperature adjustment can help. Tank-style water heaters are constantly working to keep hot water ready to go. That means they are heating your household water supply even when no one is home. You will conserve energy and reduce the risk of accidentally scalding yourself by lowering the temperature down to about 120 degrees. Tankless water heaters and smart units that you can control remotely are worth considering when you are looking to replace your current unit.

Washing your laundry in cold water is another excellent way to reduce water heating costs. Most modern detergents are designed to effectively clean in cold water, so you may not need to use warm or hot settings. 

3. Use Surge Protectors

Simply plugging in an appliance or electrical gadget begins the process of drawing electricity. This is often referred to as phantom or standby electricity usage. It can make up to 8% of household energy use. Instead of leaving your tech devices and chargers plugged in all the time, drawing energy even when nothing is powered on, use surge protectors to limit this wasted energy. This is in one with industries that utilize electrical switchgear to manage power loads and avoid surges. 

4. Embrace Alternative Energy

If you are serious about energy conservation, look toward renewable fuels. There are numerous rebates and incentive programs available for homeowners and businesses that choose to install an alternative power. Solar panels are becoming more common, but they are not your only options. Wind turbines are becoming more accessible, and geothermal heating and cooling systems are growing in popularity too. Which one works best for your situation will depend largely on your household energy needs, budget and location. 

5. Harness the Power of Nature

There are plenty of ways to get a completely natural and free boost to your energy conservation efforts. While what works for you will depend on your family and needs, here are a few simple places to start:

-Open windows to help cleanse the air and heat or cool your home.

-Plant shade trees to block the sun and lower indoor temperatures.

-Start a composting bin to reduce your household waste and produce fertilizer.

Changes don't have to be big or difficult to have a substantial impact. Simple swaps and minor adjustments can help you conserve energy and natural resources around your home.