When it comes to energy conservation, more is better. Besides being an ecologically sound choice, it makes sense to save money, too. Major energy conservation undertakings can be costly upfront, but there are many things you can do that are free. By changing a few wasteful habits you can trim your energy consumption and your bill.

Did you know that even when small appliances are turned off they are drawing power? Unplug things when you are not using them. Small kitchen appliances, cell phone and other battery chargers, and cordless tools are some things to unplug. Put televisions and game and video player systems, computers and accessories, and stereo equipment on power strips that you can easily turn off or unplug all at one time. Keep unused lights turned off. Change to fluorescent bulbs for additional savings.

Use natural sunlight to your advantage. In the winter, open drapes to let the sunlight in to warm your rooms, and close the drapes after the sun goes down to prevent heat loss through windows. In the summer, you can close drapes to block bright sunlight and keep your rooms cooler. Use vent fans sparingly, because they can pull a great deal of cooled or heated air from your house.

By setting your thermostat a few degrees cooler in the winter, and wearing a sweater, you can make an appreciable difference in your heating costs. Of course, the reverse is true in the summer; set it a few degrees warmer and wear lightweight clothing. Limit your oven use during the summer to keep heat out of the kitchen. Use a slow cooker or microwave instead of the oven.