With the cost of every natural resource on the rise, we thought that you could use some simple energy saving tips.  Look around your home or business for practices that apply.

• Select an energy-efficient model ENERGY STAR® labeled refrigerator, washer or other appliance.
• Unplug and recycle your older second refrigerator.
• Operate your dishwasher with full loads and air dry dishes on the “energy save” setting.
• Cook on range-top burners when practical instead of in the oven.
• Use the microwave for reheating and cooking small quantities of food.
• Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps that give the same amount and quality of light as incandescent bulbs, yet use one-quarter the amount of energy and last ten times longer.
• Use dimmer switches or timers on lights.
• Install storm or thermal (replacement) windows.  These tightly fitting windows give the benefit of dual pane glass.  Air trapped between the two panes acts as a thermal insulator, keeping your heated air inside where it belongs.  Be sure to get window that have the new super-efficient low-emissivity glazing.
• Wrap your water heater with a water heater blanket, especially if it’s in an unheated area of your home.
• Install energy-saving showerheads, faucets or flow restrictors.