250,000 before W:O:A 09!

[xforeverxmetalx]

better yet, have it lower in the wintertime, and dress more warmly.

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

lighting is the second biggest chunk of your electric bill...
don't have them on when no one's in the room.

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

also, if it's daytime and there's enough lighting through the windows, there's no need to have them on at all.
[personally, I don't ever have the lights in my room on unless it's nighttime and I can't see otherwise.]

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

switch to fluorescent bulbs.
they're more expensive, but they will quickly pay for themselves.
[incandescent bulbs are around 60-75 watts, fluorescent are closer to 15... and they're also a lot brighter]

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

don't have the TV, computer, etc. or anything else on when you're not using it. [mostly obvious]

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

some appliances, when plugged in, use electricity even when they're off... either unplug them, or use power strips.

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

certain appliances use a lot more power than you think... a hair dryer, for example, can be 1875 watts.
check the wattages when buying or using products, and be especially careful not to use them longer than is needed.

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

there are also certain ways you can make your house more energy efficient...

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

large windows can bring in passive solar energy in the winter [heating the house without using electricity]
and overhangs above these windows block a lot of this sun in the summer, when the sun is higher in the sky.

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

planting trees in front of your also can help a considerable amount...
trees that lose their leaves in the fall and winter provide shade in the summer and allow the sunshine through in the winter.

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

where around your house you do this is important as well, as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west... consider this when planting trees and/or putting in windows.

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

[I forget exactly which sides are best ]

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

efficient appliances are always a good idea, such as
dishwashers, toilets, washers, dryers, etc. that use less water and electricity

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

don't drive when you don't need to [also obvious]

 

[xforeverxmetalx]

fuel-efficient cars may be expensive to begin with, but they often will pay for themselves over time.