* Turn off lights when you leave a room or when they aren't needed.

* Install energy-efficient compact fluorescent lights. These give off less heat and use as much as 75% less energy than regular bulbs.

* Keep bulbs and lighting fixtures clean for maximum lighting output.

* Pull the plug on instant-on appliances(such as televisions) when you don't plan to use them for a few days or more. They draw current even when they're switched off.

* Use task lighting directed at a specific area instead of overhead or general lighting.

* Turn off unnecessary lights since much of the energy used is given off as heat that your air-conditioner will have to work harder to compensate for.

* Keep windows clean so daylight can come through better and you will use fewer lights.

* Install outdoor motion detectors to light walkways and outdoor areas. This spares the expense of leaving floodlights on all the time.

* Install electronic timers to control fans, heat lamps and indoor and outdoor lights. You can program these to remain on for a specified interval and then shut off.

* Install occupancy sensors to automatically switch on lights when a person enters a room and off after the area is unoccupied. These are ideal for walk-in closets and hallways,laundry rooms, basements, work areas, tool sheds and garages-- all the places where lights may be needlessly left on for hours or even days at a time.

* Install dimmer switches in place oflight switches. Dimmers not only enhance the atmosphere of a room, but also use less electricity. For example,a light bulb at 50% brightness uses approximately 40% less electricity. A dimmer switch also extends the life of your bulbs. A bulb at 50% brightness will last approximately 20 times longer.

* Use an energy calculator to calculate your monthly or annual energy use.