Five Ways to Save the Planet in Five Minutes

Looking to lessen the load on the planet--and your budget? In just a few minutes you can make your home more energy efficient, more comfortable to live in, save yourself a few bucks, and maybe feel a little less guilty about living high on the food chain. Playing your part is so easy that we have compiled a list of five energy saving tips that will take five minutes or less to complete. Who knew going green could be so simple?

1. Go Fluorescent
   While fluorescent light fixtures may be a thing of the past, fluorescent bulbs are here to stay. Replace your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent ones—they are four times more energy efficient. New models of fluorescents provide a much more natural-looking light. Also, this quick mini-project can save you about $60 a year on your utility bills. Fluorescent bulbs will set you back about $4.00 apiece (buy them in bulk). Of course, if you've got fluorescent tube lights already but want to replace them, talk to folks at your local lighting showroom or a well-stocked hardware store. There are newer tubes that emit a warm, almost sun-like glow. (For even more control over your lighting install a dimmer.)
2. Get Reflective
   If replacing your old windows isn't within your budget this year, think about covering the glass with a protective film. Found at any home improvement store, this film retains heat during the winter and reflects it in the summer. Some brands boast up to a 70% reduction in heat during those hot months, which is good news if you don't own an air conditioner! Other pluses: the film can prevent your belongings from fading due to sun exposure.
3. Bundle Up...Your Water Heater
   Heating water requires a lot of energy and costs a pretty penny, so insulate your water heater with a kit purchased from your local home improvement store. The cover will only set you back about $10, but can save you up to 25%-40% on your water bill by retaining the tank's heat. (You can also make a cover with fiberglass insulation and metallic tape, but don't wrap the flue collar or burner access.) If your unit is less than 7 years old, it probably is already insulated and doesn't need to be wrapped, but you can insulate your hot water pipes instead for added savings. (If problems persist you may need to replace your water heater.)
4. Vacuum Your Fridge
   As if you don't have enough to clean, now we are telling you to vacuum your fridge! But because it's on all the time, your fridge accounts for 8% of your home's total energy expenditure, so this is a worthwhile project. First, take a peak behind your fridge. If there are big black coils mounted on the back of the appliance, they don't need to be cleaned. If you aren't so lucky, unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall. Check the manual to see where the coils are located (most likely underneath). Next, remove the plate protecting the coils and using a static cloth or a vacuum with an attachment, clean the dust off of the coils moving from front to back. Replace the plate when you are done and plug in the fridge. Experts recommend that you clean the coils once every 6 to 12 months, depending on your lifestyle. If you have pets or live in an area that's prone to dust, it's best to clean them more often. (Make sure to investigate if your fridge is leaking water.)
5. Change your Settings
   If it isn't already, turn your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit; you don't really need tap water to be any hotter. This works both as a safety measure (especially if you have small children) as well as a money saver. When you aren't at home, remember to turn your thermostat down to 58 degrees so that you aren't heating an empty house but are keeping it warm enough to prevent your pipes from freezing. In the winter, keep the temperature at 68 degrees Fahrenheit; in the summer, aim for 78 degrees. Installing a programmable thermostat is a fantastic way to ensure the device is always where you want it to be.

Finally, check all of your appliances for energy saving setting options and switch them over accordingly.

Help keep your bills low and the planet healthy with these easy energy savings projects. Five minutes of your time and virtually no money invested can make a big difference!

Other Ideas for Going Green:
Easy Energy Saving Tips from Uncle Sam
Turn Your House into a Hazard-Free Haven
10 Energy-wise Tips for Saving Money this Summer