Energy conservation has become a primary focus of concern throughout the nation and the entire world. In an effort to become more energy efficient in our own homes, here are some suggestions that you can easily implement that should help the community, the environment and, at least as important, your pocketbook.

• Shut off the lights when leaving a room. Instead, use aromatherapy candles which are not only soothing, but esthetically pleasing as well.
• Replace standard incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient bulbs. Although a bit pricey, they can last several years without having to be changed.
• Ensure that all light fixtures are cleaned regularly. This can increase overall efficiency by up to 20 percent.
• It's suggested that you follow the manufacturer's recommended bulb wattage for a particular light fixture. For example, using a 60-watt bulb when a 40-watt bulb is called for can waste energy, and might also be hazardous.
• Buy energy-efficient appliances and unplug them when not in use.
• During the summer months, use your air conditioner as little as possible. Clean or replace the filter regularly, and use the 'Power Saver' setting (if your unit has one).
• Utilize low-profile fans. They're affordable and run on DC power.
• Set the refrigerator temperature below the recommended level. Around thirty-seven degrees is suggested, since your refrigerator uses more energy than any other appliance.
• Try not to overload your outlets. Unplug hair dryers, cell phone chargers and other items after use.
• Shut off living room lights when watching TV, and make sure all lights and other electrical appliances are turned off whenever you leave a room.
• Wait until you have a full load to run your washer, and use only the 'cold' cycle.
• Similarly, for the dishwasher, only utilize it when it's at full capacity.
• Before the cold weather arrives, winterize your home by ensuring insulation is up to standards. Adequate caulking around the windows will also cut down on heat loss.
• During the winter months, try to keep the thermostat at an average of around 68 degrees. Wearing warm clothes while in the house will reduce your need to run the heater.
• Purchase a 'low-flow' shower head from your local home-improvement store to help decrease your water usage.
• Almost every state has a recycling program. Make sure that you have enough containers to separate papers, plastic, bottles and rubber items from your regular household garbage.
• Experts assert that an energy-efficient microwave oven uses up to 80 percent less electricity than a conventional oven. Investing a few dollars in one of these items will pay for itself quickly.
• When using a regular oven, try not to open the oven to check your food's progress too often, as the heat will escape and thus more energy will be required to complete the cooking process. Plan to prepare foods that can all be cooked at the same temperature.
• You can save up to 10 percent or more on heating costs by insulating your water heater.