Learning how to live an eco lifestyle is an enlightening process that may take months to get the hang of. Learning how to be money-savvy while taking part of green living might take even longer than that. Part of an eco lifestyle is eating healthy, using green transportation when possible, participating in green efforts, and saving energy in any and every way possible.

When many areas of the US have had record hot summers, it is hard to remember to be energy-savvy. Keeping the A/C down can some very cranky customers, but here are some ways in which to save energy while living an eco lifestyle and NOT want to pull your hair out.

1. Turn off the lights – your parents were not simply trying to get on your nerves when they told you this growing up. Turning off lights as you leave a room really helps conserve energy. Not only does this help extend the life of the light bulbs, but will decrease the typical 11% of a home’s energy bill that lighting consumes.
2. Use Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs – These light bulbs, more commonly known as CFLs use about 75% less energy than regular bulbs and have a longer lifespan.
3. Use Motion Sensors – Outdoor lamps and other lighting is a huge energy sucker when left on all night. Installing motion sensors will not only decrease the amount of energy used by these outdoor safety lights, but also may boost security and decrease the effect on wildlife that leaving lights on through the night might do.
4. Turn off your computer – A computer has become a needed appliance in today’s world, but is also one of the biggest energy suckers in your home. Before going to bed, turn off your computer and do not turn it on in the morning until you’re actually using it. This green living tip saves energy and money; according to the Department of Energy you’ll save an average of $90/year.
5. Laptop > Desktop – Laptops only us 15-25 watts of energy during regular use. Desktops use 150 watts on average. Laptops are more convenient in every way!