Money Sense Tips

For years, we have been hearing about energy conservation. Only recently, it has come to the forefront of discussion.

Today, 81 countries are coming together to observe Earth Hour. Starting at 8:30pm your local time, turn off all of your lights for just 1 hour state your global concern for climatechange.

STAY GREEN and VOTE EARTH!

Since we are on the topic on conserving energy, let me share with you some tips which you can save money by being more energy efficient. Most importantly, you can see a yearly savings on your bills.

1.  Purchase energy-efficient light bulbs.  They last longer and us less energy than standard light bulbs.

2.  Ensure that all appliances have the Energy Star logo.  Unplug appliances when not it use.

3.  Check out the new Energy Star ceiling fans that are available.  They utilize less than half the amount of energy than conventional light and fan units.

4.  Turn off and shut down your computer when not in use instead of keeping it in sleep mode.

5.  Most cable TVs, if programmed properly, will shut off if you click the power button on the remote.  However, there are instances in which it may be necessary to shut both the cable and the TV separately.  For older model TVs, this problem does occur and the result is that although the cable is turned off, the TV is actually still on.  Check to ensure both TV and cable units are shut down before you go to bed.

6.  Clean the air conditioner filter often.

7.  Winterize your home.

8.  Lower the thermostat during the day, and keep it on the desired temp at night.

9.  Check the refrigerator thermostat to ensure it is kept on the recommended setting.  With some refrigerators, keeping too many items in the freezer may cause the compressor and motor to continuously run.  Read the manual to determine what steps need to be taken to ensure maximum energy compliance.

10.  Turn the lights off when leaving any room in your home.

11.  Take shorter showers.

12.  Wash a full load of clothes in cold water.  Use the dishwasher for full loads only.

13.  Use the microwave instead of the oven, if applicable.

These are just some tips you can utilize to become more energy efficient during these tough economic times.  Make these steps part of your daily routine as we all strive to engage in energy conversation and save money at the same time.

At the same time, click below to make full of the green coupons for your energy saving efforts.

The time we spend with our families is priceless. But most popular family activities are quite expensive. Even a simple night at the movies can put a serious dent in the budget by the time you buy tickets, popcorn and drinks for everyone.

Fortunately, there are cheaper alternatives to expensive family outings. They provide the opportunity to have just as much fun at a fraction of the cost. Some are even free.

Movies and Music

Kids are often itching to see the newest releases at the movie theater. Doing so even once a month, however, can get pricey. One alternative in some areas is the drive-in. Admission is usually much cheaper than it is at a regular theater, and some let you bring your own drinks and snacks. Drive-ins usually show fairly new releases, so the kids can say they saw something that’s not out on video yet.

Some theaters offer reduced-price matinees during the day. Some even have free kid-oriented movies on weekend days. These options offer the theater experience without the outrageous cost.

Kids often want to go to concerts, but tickets to see the most famous bands are far from cheap. Check your local paper for free concerts in the park. Many areas have them during the warm months. Young children can enjoy the music without the huge crowds and deafening sound systems, and older children might gain an appreciation for less well-known bands.

The Great Outdoors

Nature offers a wealth of possibilities for family outings. Camping is a wonderful activity for families, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. It can be as simple as pitching a tent in the back yard, or you can spring for a camper and rent space at a campground. Bring the grill and some hamburgers or hot dogs, or catch some fish to fry.

Parks are great for day trips. Those with playground equipment can keep youngsters entertained for hours on end. Hiking trails offer opportunities for exercise and exploration. Most parks have picnic facilities, so you can pack a lunch instead of eating out.

Other Ideas

Here are some more inexpensive family activities to consider:

* Play miniature golf. Admission is usually quite reasonable, and it provides the opportunity for relaxed yet engaging family competition.

* Visit a petting zoo. These small zoos do not have the exotic animals you see at larger ones, but kids can feed and pet the animals.

* Go to a museum. Some offer cheap or free admission, while others cost more. But the larger and more expensive ones often sell season passes, so if you live close by, you can visit numerous times for one low price.

* Go boating. If you’re fortunate enough to live near a body of water, boating is fun and relaxing. Canoe and paddleboat rentals are inexpensive, and when you’re done boating there are usually other cheap or free activities in the area.

* Attend events at a nearby college. These may include plays, concerts, dance recitals and movie showings. Prices are low, and student discounts usually apply to kids, too.

Having fun as a family doesn’t require a six-figure income. If you look hard enough, you can find lots of free or cheap activities that parents and kids can enjoy just about anywhere.