5. Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

A quick and easy way to reduce your energy use is to replace existing incandescent lights with energy-efficient compact fluorescent lights. According to General Electric (NYSE:GE), compact fluorescent bulbs "use two-thirds less energy than standard incandescent light bulbs, and last up to 10-times longer." GE reports that using a 13-watt compact fluorescent in place of a 60-watt incandescent will result in a $30 savings in energy costs over the life of the bulb. Regardless of the bulbs that you use, turn them off when you leave the room. For laundry rooms, garages, basements and other little-used areas, consider the installation of timers that automatically turn off the lights after a preset amount of time - just in case you forget to shut them off.