If one of your light bulbs burns out, replace it with an eco-friendly fluorescent bulb. They only use a fraction of the electricity required for a standard incandescent light bulb and only need replacing every 7 years or so. Fluorescent light bulbs cost a little more than standard incandescent light bulbs, but you will save money due to lower electricity bills. The amount of electricity estimated to be saved over 5 years is $35 per fluorescent bulb, which could amount to $350 or more if you have 10 fluorescent light bulbs. Another benefit is that fluorescent light bulbs do not get hot, which should reduce your air conditioning bill and save you more money.

Reduce Water

In order to save water, reduce the amount of water in your toilet tank. You can do this by getting an empty soda bottle, filling it with water, and putting it in your toilet tank. This will reduce the amount of water used by 2 liters per flush and end up saving you money while you go green.

Use Cold Water Instead of Hot

Washing your clothes in cold water instead of hot or warm water can actually save a lot of money over time. Most clothes that are not very dirty will get just as clean in cold water as in hot water, so why waste the electricity? Also try drying your clothes outside on a clothes line instead of in a dryer.

Shade Your Home

Trees are not only beautiful, they also are eco-friendly. Mature trees help shade your home, which reduces your electricity bill by up to 20% over homes without shade trees. Deciduous trees should be planted towards the east and west of your property for the most shade benefit. Evergreen trees should be planted toward the north side of your property to act as a wind break in the winter. Consider creating shade with trees or an awning over your air conditioning unit to make it more efficient. In most parts of the country, small trees only cost $10-$20, but can eventually increase your property value by as much as $1,000 when mature. Trees not only save you money but also makes you money when you sell your home.

Eliminate Phantom Power

You have probably learned this one as a child and may need a reminder - turn off the lights when you leave the room. Many household appliances also use phantom power, which is power that is used when the appliance is turned off. To eliminate phantom power, unplug your appliances when they are not in use. You can also plug your appliances into a plug strip and turn off the plug strip. Eliminating or reducing phantom power can significantly reduce your electricity bill and save you money.

Select Energy Efficient Appliances

The next time you purchase an appliance, look at the energy ratings listed on that appliances verses other similar appliances. Select one that uses less electricity, which will save you money.

Use a Water Heater Blanket

Purchase a water heater blanket to insulate your water heater. Water heater blankets cost about $20, but could save up to 10% of your heating costs.

Change Your Air Filters

Change your home's air filters regularly. New air filters allow your air conditioner to work more efficiently, use less electricity, and reduce the strain on your air conditioner so it will need costly maintenance less frequently.

Use Ceiling Fans

Use ceiling fans to keep your home cooler. Inexpensive ceiling fans cost as little as $20, so it should pay for itself in the first month or two.

Check Your Home's Insulation

Make your home more insulated. First, seal any gaps and cracks in your home's exterior, especially around your doors and windows. Next, ensure that you have the proper amount of soffit vents and that they are not blocked in any way. Third, make sure you have ridge vents. Fourth, seal up any gable vents. Finally, add insulation to your attic. These changes will help keep the temperature in your home more stable, thus saving you money and being more eco-friendly. New insulation along with the other fixes may pay for themselves in about a year.

Get a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats can save money. You can set the air conditioner to turn about 30 minutes before you get home in the evening instead of running it all day. Many programmable thermostats cost around $40, so it should pay for itself in a few months.