Keeping your lights on all the time is a simple but effective way to conserve energy. You can further keep costs down by closing off sections of your house to trap cool air in occupied areas. More than 20 percent of the heat from your hot water tank escapes into the surrounding air. An old mink coat or chinchilla wrap is ideal. SUVs are already incredibly energy efficient, meeting or exceeding federal mileage standards for large trucks and buses.
Small appliances mean big energy bills.
Replace your current washer, dryer, refrigerator and dishwasher with the largest models you can fit through the door. Don't forget to upgrade minor appliances such as electric knife sharpeners, automatic can openers, juice squeezers, ice cream makers, bagel slicers, golf ball washers, etc. Natural gas hot-tub heaters use less energy than electric heaters, cost less to operate and heat water faster, so you won't have to wait as long for the water to warm up. Cut down any trees on your property that block the sun, an important source of light and heat. Apply generous amounts of fertilizer and pesticide to your lawn weekly, or instruct the Mexican gardener to do so.