As fuel and energy costs skyrocket, consumers can save money with a few simple energy-saving measures at home. Most cost nothing and require no more than changing a few habits. Others require a small investment that will more than pay for the price in long-term savings and energy conservation. Watch bills go down after you apply these energy saving hints.

Some of the simplest are the easiest but will save in the long run. Train your family to turn out the lights when leaving a room or going out. Make sure all faucets are turned off tight to prevent unnecessary water use and drips. When your computer and monitor are not in use, turn them off. And if out for the evening, leave no more than a single lamp burning. If going on vacation, unplug your electronic appliances. Some energy is consumed even when they're not on.

Begin energy conservation one room at a time. In the kitchen, let your dishes air dry instead of using your dishwasher's drying cycle. Always run a dishwasher full or select the right cycle for the load. If you hand wash, stack dishes in a drainer to dry. Add an aerator to your kitchen faucet to lower its flow to only 1.5 gallons per minute. Invest in a small water heater beneath the kitchen sink. Warm water will be almost instant and won't work the main water heater as hard. Keep all water heaters set to about 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

Use pots and pans that fit the burner to avoid excess heat use. When possible, use the microwave for cooking instead of the electric range or oven. When using the oven for multiple items that bake at different temperatures, use the average temperature. If baking items that call for temperatures of 325, 350, and 375, use 350. Always use your kitchen exhaust fan when cooking and only open the oven when necessary—each time you open it, heat escapes. If possible, postpone cooking and baking until evening hours in summer or do them early before the full heat of the day.