5. Wrap you hot water heater with an insulating blanket. The savings associated with this practice will vary based on the age and type of heater - generally ranging from 10%-45%.

6. Invest in an energy audit. Home energy audits typically cost a couple hundred dollars but the long-term benefit may turn out to be much more. There are several local businesses that provide this service. An alternative is to do it yourself, hop over to this Energy Star page to learn more. Also, Toledo Edison offers a useful energy calculator.

7. Use compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs. A simple and easy way to save money, CFLs typically use 70% less energy than traditional bulbs. However, you should know CFLs contain very low levels of mercury and should be disposed of properly. Contact Keep Toledo/Lucas County Beautiful regarding their disposal.

8. Consider plugging your computer or video game system into a power strip or heavy duty surge protector. Because electronics may use energy even when turned off, unplugging devices from the wall or using a power strip may help eliminate "vampire energy".

9. Set computers to go on "standby" when not in use for a period of time. Putting a computer on "standby" or to "sleep" uses up to 10 times less energy than a screensaver.

10. Last but certainly not least, RECYCLE! Recycling is a philosophy - it's not just bottles and newspaper anymore. Each day there is an opportunity to recycle an item in our lives - take the extra time to do so.

For even more information, check of the U.S. Green Building Council's Green Home Guide.