(NC)—From your favourite room to your comfy chair, your home is your palace. Here are a few ways to make sure your energy bills don't cost a princely sum:

• Install a programmable thermostat and lower the temperature by 3°C at night.

• Lower your hot water temperature to 49ºC and turn it down when you're away for an extended period.

• Wash your clothes in cold or warm water.

• Hang your clothes to dry.

• Draft proof and insulate your home and duct work.

• Purchase your appliances that are EnergyStar qualified.

• Use compact fluorescent lightbulbs.

• Use the energy-saver option for your dishwasher.

• Look for Ecologo certified consumer products like paint and paper.

Credit: www.newscanada.com