The following are cost-saving tips that can save you money over the next year. Consider implementing some of them so that your family can stretch their budget.

Plan a visit to your attic to see what is up there. Many internet sites allow you to list these items for sale. If you are not using them, maybe someone else will.

Drink tap water instead of bottled water and you could save as much as $1,250 per year.

Adjust your thermostat so that your heat and/or cooling system is not working as hard and will use less energy. Consider a sweater if you are cool.

Adjust your toilet flow. Instead of purchasing a new toilet, consider filling a plastic drink bottle with water, cap it, and put it in a corner of the tank. This will decrease the water needed per flush.

Switch all light fixtures to fluorescent bulbs as they last longer and use less energy.

A new showerhead with a low-flow can save water over a period of time.

Pull the plugs on your electronics and the savings will be considerable. Disconnect the TV, DVD player, etc. each time you are finished using them. Substantial savings will be realized by this simple act.

Do not hand wash dishes; it actually uses more energy than the dishwasher.

Line dry your clothes.

Weather strip your doors.

Turn down lights using dimmers in several areas.

Plant leafy trees to protect from the summer’s heat.

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