How can you maximize your energy efficiency at home to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

Find out how much energy you use

Changing your habits to decrease energy used for lighting, temperature control and appliances is a move in the right direction. But to make a measurable impact on conservation, learn how much energy you already use and then set goals to reduce those amounts.

The UC Davis Energy Efficiency Center has a project called "Confront carbon at home." A cornerstone of the project is a spreadsheet that calculates power bill savings.

Be smart about room temperature

Take advantage of natural heating and cooling during each season. In the summer, open windows in the evening to let cooler temperatures provide you with free air conditioning. Then close the windows and curtains in the morning before outside temperatures rise.

During cooler months, open blinds or drapes in the morning to let in the sun's light for some additional warmth and close them in the early evening to help insulate windows against colder outside temperatures.

Turn off lights

It’s not a new idea, but sometimes we forget: When no one is in a room, the lights should be off. If you’re in the room, you can also find ways to reduce your lighting use. Use daylight as much as possible and consider turning off lights during the day.

Try using lights that focus on the task at hand instead of lighting the whole room. Remove some of the bulbs from ceiling fixtures. Use energy-saving compact fluorescent and LED light bulbs.

Take stock of what you plug into the wall

Even if they're not turned on, electronics use some energy when plugged in. If you aren't using that computer, television, radio or coffeepot, unplug it.

Replacing older appliances with more efficient models can also positively impact your energy use. Look for rebates on kitchen appliances.

Replacing an older computer with a more efficient model can help, but only if you completely retire the old computer. Studies have also found that turning your computer off when not in use does not damage the hard drive and can, in fact, help your equipment last longer. Turning off your computer when it's not in use for 30 minutes or more is the best practice.