It may be difficult to believe, but every 20 years American households double the amount of energy they use. Well, it does make sense. Just stop for a minute and think about all the things in your home that use electricity.

Here are some of the top energy users and some simple ways to reduce your family’s energy use:

Energy Users	Energy Savers
TV, lights, radio, stereo	Turn them off when not in use.
Stove	Tell Mom and Dad to cover pots when boiling water or soup, it cooks faster.
Clothes Washer	Use cold water; wash only full loads; new front-loading ENERGY STAR® appliances cost more when you buy, but save your family money and energy in the long run.
Dishwasher	Check the control knob and see if you can air dry pots and pans instead of drying with heat. It’ll save money, and your parents will thank you.
Baths	How about taking a short shower instead of a bath, if Mom and Dad agree.
Doors and windows	Do you have storm doors? They keep your home sealed so there are fewer drafts. When you have a draft, heat escapes and cold outdoor air takes its place. You can help Mom and Dad weather-strip around windows and doors and you’ll save money and energy.
Thermostat	You can usually keep these set at 68 degrees during winter days and then turn them down at night; set at 78 degrees in summer. Check with your parents about these settings. Sometimes if someone is sick or there is a baby in the house, you may have to keep it warmer.
Fireplace	Always check to make sure the flue is open when building a fire and closed when there is no fire. Leaving the flue open when the fireplace is not in use is like having a six-inch hole in your house. You lose a lot of the warm air your family is paying to heat.
Hot Water Heater	Check in your utility area to see if the hot water heater is insulated. If it isn’t, remind Mom and Dad energy is being wasted.