Energy efficiency – it’s as easy as flipping off the lights when you leave a room or keeping your thermostat at a comfortable rather than cold setting on a hot day. A typical family spends about $2,000 a year on home utility bills. Heating and cooling equipment accounts for half of a home’s energy use, followed by large appliances and electronic devices, water heating equipment and lighting.

Below, we have included a few easy, yet often overlooked, steps you can follow to make the most of your energy use. If you’re committed to saving energy and money, consider going the extra mile with more comprehensive tips we’ve provided for each category to achieve greater efficiency.

• Set your thermostat between 78 and 80 degrees during warm months. During colder months, a thermostat setting of between 68 to 70 degrees is recommended. For every degree that you raise or lower your thermostat, you save 7 to 10 percent on heating or cooling costs.
• Use a programmable thermostat to manage your daily heating and cooling needs. Try a free CPS Energy Savers Smart Thermostat.
• A home energy management system can save you up to 10% on heating and cooling costs by helping you keep tabs on your HVAC, electric hot water heater and/or pool pump. Try CPS Energy’s free Home Manager.
• Try ceiling or portable fans to circulate air and make a room feel cooler.
• Turn off the television, fan and lights or lamps when you leave a room.
• Buy CFLs or LEDs to replace less-efficient incandescent bulbs. 
• Purchase energy-efficient appliances and products. Check the Energy Guide label and look for the ENERGY STAR® logo when purchasing these items. Take advantage of our home efficiency rebates!
• Turn off or unplug electronic devices, such as computers, power tools, cell phone chargers, digital cameras, and MP3s, when they are not being used.
• Reduce your use of hot water – take short showers, use cold water to wash clothes, etc.
• Try natural gas instead -- Gas water heaters, dryers, and cooktops are more energy efficient than their electric counterparts. Consider a Natural Gas Rebate 
• Perform a home energy audit, through CPS Energy Savers, to reduce common inefficiencies.

Heating and Cooling Tips 

Minor changes in your habits can result in major savings on your monthly bill.

Water Heating Tips 

Think conservation when using hot water in your daily routine and save energy as well.

Appliances and Home Electronics Tips 

Be wise with many of today's modern conveniences.

Lighting Tips 

Perhaps the easiest and more effective home improvement you can make.

Also, watch ENERGY STAR's tips for ways you can save money and energy around the house.