What’s the easiest way to cut energy costs?

There are dozens of ways to cut energy costs on a daily basis, but here are five of the most basic:

1. Cook with something smaller than your oven. Whenever possible, use a microwave, air fryer, or other small appliance to cook. It’s usually quicker, and the heat is focused more on what’s being cooked, thus saving energy.
2. Replace your HVAC filters regularly, and use your vents wisely. These filters often become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris. How often you need to change your filters will depend on how much you run your heater and air conditioner, the amount of debris circulating through the rooms, and the type of filter you use, but in all cases, you should check on them every four to six weeks. Additionally, making sure your vents are closed in rooms you do not use and open and clean in rooms you do use will distribute temperature much more economically.
3. Turn off lights and, since many electronic devices draw power even when they’re turned off, unplug appliances. These probably go without saying, but they can make a big impact on your energy bill.
4. Replacing your incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient alternatives reduces their electricity output by 25-80 percent.
5. Weatherize and insulate your home to save on heating and cooling expenses.