Saving energy at home will not only create less demand on the power grid, but will also save you money in electricity costs. Here are some simple things you can do to reduce your energy use.

Unplug. Whether it is the cell phone charger or the TV, when it is plugged in it is using electricity. Simply unplugging electronics and appliances while not in use will cut that phantom power load.

Turn off the light. Just flip the light switch off when you leave the room or keep it off if there is adequate daylight.

Buy Energy Star. If you’re upgrading to a new appliance, check for the Energy Star label. They work the same as (or probably better than) the older models but suck up far less power.

Switch to CFLs. Traditional incandescent light bulbs are inefficient and spend most of their energy creating heat rather than light. The next time a bulb burns out screw in a compact flourescent instead. They save energy and last a lot longer.

Mind your refrigerator. You can thank the fridge for taking up most of the energy in your home. Lighter Footstep’s Chris Baskind lists the ways you can get the most from your refrigerator.

Don’t overwork your AC. The air conditioner is also a big energy sucker in hot weather months. Keeping the thermostat at a set temperature, and simply turning it off when you’re not at home are among the ways you can keep the AC costs down.

Here is some more information from Green Options on ways you can save energy in your home:

Daily Tip: A Bright Idea

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Guest Post: Cut Your Energy Bills in Half (Part 1 of 2)

Guest Post: Cut Your Energy Bills in Half (Part 2 of 2)

Home Energy Audits

Environmental Defense: Why Today’s CFLs Are So Much Better

Lighter Footstep: Ten Cheap Ways to Chill Your Refrigerator

Tip o’ the Day: Get the Most From Your Air Conditioner

Programmable Thermostats

Daily Tip: Unplug that Cell Phone Charger