Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs:
These bulbs – now available to fit many light fixtures – use just a quarter of the electricity of regular incandescent bulbs. Plus, they last up to 10 times longer.

Turn off the lights:
When you exit a room remember to switch off the lights. If you are willing to spend an extra bit of cash to help you with this, you can always install movement sensors – If you enter a room the lights will turn on and when no movement is detected the lights will turn off. Another way to save energy is to install timers for all your lights – No more worrying about leaving lights on. Once the timer has been installed and set to a specific time, the lights will be switched on / off automatically.

Set cooling and heating temperatures correctly:
Your fridge and freezer are probably the biggest electrical energy consumers in the house. Take steps to make sure they’re not working harder than necessary. Fridges do their job at around 2.7 degrees Celsius. Freezers set at -19 degrees Celsius keep things nice and frosty. Be sure to close the fridge and freezer doors – Leaving them open for just a few extra seconds waste a lot of energy. Water heaters (Geysers) work most efficiently between 49 and 60 degrees Celcius.

Get unplugged:
Electronic appliances, including TVs, computers, and home entertainment systems can consume almost as much energy when in standby mode as they do during the relatively small amount of time they’re being used.

Use appliances efficiently:
Wait for a full load before turning on the washing machine, dryer, or dishwasher. Clear the lint filter after every dryer load and air-dry clothes when weather allows. Use the air-dry function on your dishwasher. Preheat your oven only when necessary.

Let the sun shine:
The cheapest and most environmentally sound heat and light source is just outside your window. Open blinds, drapes, and shutters to let solar energy warm and brighten your home naturally. No need to switch on lights when the sun is shining into a room.

Stop leaks:
Plug, insulate, replace, repair, caulk, or seal to make your home as leak-proof as possible – It is amazing how much you can save on your monthly utility bill, by making sure no air escapes on enters your home