82. If you have a second refrigerator or freezer, consider getting rid of it. A spare refrigerator can add more than $100 to your energy bills every year, and it’s a safety hazard for small children.

83. If you have an outdoor hot tub, keep it covered when not in use. If you have a pool, use a solar cover to use the natural warmth of the sun to heat the water.

84. Keep waterbeds covered with quilts or blankets to help retain their heat. You might also want to insulate the bottom with a sheet of rigid foam insulation.

85. If you have an attached garage, keep the garage door closed, especially during the winter.

86. If you need a new lawn mower, consider an electric model. They’re less expensive to operate (about three cents of electricity
per use), 75 percent quieter, and they significantly reduce toxic emissions.

87. Instead of air-polluting and expensive charcoal or propane grills, try an electric or natural gas model. They’re more economical and more convenient – you’ll never run out of fuel.

88. Turn off and unplug any electrical device that’s not being used. Many appliances, especially computers, televisions and VCRs draw power even when turned off.

89. Place humidifiers and dehumidifiers away from walls and bulky furniture. These appliances work best when air circulates freely around them. Be sure to clean the unit often to prevent unhealthy mold and bacteria from developing.

90. If your home has no sidewall insulation, try placing heavy furniture like bookshelves, armoires and sofas along exterior walls, and use decorative quilts as wall hangings. This will help block cold air.

91. When you take a vacation, don't forget to give your appliances a rest too. Turn off and unplug everything you can, set your water heater to the lowest setting and shut off the water supply to the dishwasher and washing machine.

When you take a vacation, don't forget to turn off and unplug everything you can.