• There are all kinds of ways to save energy at home, from basement to attic.house image by Cora Reed from Fotolia.com
  
  More and more people are looking for ways to conserve energy, both to protect the environment and save money on their energy and gas costs. Luckily, there are a number of ways you can conserve energy in your daily life. By taking simple steps at home, in the office and while traveling, you can conserve energy while also saving money.
  
  

Lights Out

• One of the simplest ways to conserve energy in your home or workplace is to turn out the lights when you leave a room. Open window shades to bring in more natural light during the daytime, and use lamps rather than overhead lights, to provide light directly where it is needed.
  
  

Appliances

• Choosing environmentally-friendly versions of appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators and air conditioners can save money on your electric bill. They also use less energy than standard models, so they are friendly to your budget as well. Many energy-saving appliances carry the label of the government-backed Energy Star program.
  
  

Unplug

• Unplug electrical devices when not in use. Unplugging unnecessary appliances can save up to $10 a month on your bill, according to a report from ABC News, which notes that the energy used by "phantom power" is "responsible for 5 percent of the total energy used and $3 billion in actual dollars wasted." Unplugging appliances is especially important when you will be out of your home for an extended period of time, such as family vacations and long business trips.
  
  

Light Bulbs

• Replacing incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent varieties can also save energy. ABC News reports that these bulbs use "75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs" and "last about 10 times longer."
  
  

Home Maintenance

• A large portion of your energy costs fund the heating and cooling of your home. Maintaining your home and ensuring that it is well-insulated can save energy and lower your electric and gas/oil bills. Repair or replace old windows and check the filters in your furnace. Simple measures such as blocking cold air from entering your home around windows and doorways can conserve energy and save money. Fix any cracks or places where air can escape. Keep up with your home maintenance and enjoy the savings.
  
  

Thermostat

• Try turning off the air conditioner, opening windows and using fans to cool your home when the weather is mild. Dress for the season to stay comfortable before you adjust the thermostat. In winter, turn down the heat a few degrees and dress in layers. Use an extra blanket on the bed at night rather than turning up the heat.
  
  

Water Consumption

• Take quick showers to conserve both energy and water, since a long, hot shower takes more energy to warm the water. Use a timer or an alarm clock to help you keep track of your shower time. Check your faucets for leaks, which can also drain energy and waste water.
  
  

Car Maintenance

• Keeping your car in good working order can help improve your gas mileage and lower your gas costs and energy consumption. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, and have them rotated regularly. Change oil as suggested by the manufacturer, and have tune-ups regularly.
  
  

Carpooling and Public Transportation

• In addition to keeping your car in good working order, try carpooling to reduce energy consumption and save both money for gas and mileage on your car. Public transportation is another option that requires less gas and helps the environment.
  
  

Walking and Biking

• When the weather permits, walk or bike to your destination, rather than taking the car. You'll save energy and get a workout at the same time.