IDT Energy suggests that it is possible for consumers to change some small things around the house to save energy and money.

Here is a fun video for families to enjoy which demonstrates a large number of simple ways families can save energy at work and at home.

Last December President Obama signed into law the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Re-authorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.

According to this law taxpayers that own their own homes can get a tax credit if they install energy efficient windows, doors and/or skylights into their homes.

To be eligible to receive the tax benefits the windows, skylights and doors must:

•    Conform to all the Energy Star Program requirements.
•    Be put into the main residence of the taxpayer.
•    Be added to the home before the date of December 31, 2011.

The tax credit is 10% of the cost of the product, not including installation and cannot exceed:

• $200 for either windows or skylights
• $500 for doors

IDT Energy recommends taking advantage of these tax credits in order to lower your energy usage during the year and thus saving money on your energy bill.

The Energy Star label helps consumers to make more energy efficient choices when they purchase new appliances and other electric products. IDT Energy recommends that you view this short video to get a better understanding of what the Energy Star label is all about, and start saving electricity and money on your electric bill.

Most of us spend a lot of time in our kitchens, and we use a great deal of our electricity and gas in this location.  During the hot summer months, there are some clever and easy-to-follow ways to reduce your bills while still feeding the family delicious foods.

1. If you’re in the market for a new oven, look for a convection oven.  It will consume a third less energy than a standard oven!  It creates a more evenly distributed cooking experience and requires less cooking time.
2. Only run the dishwasher with a full load to cut down on electricity costs.  Use your range hood while the dishwasher is on to vent excess heat and humidity.
3. While this may sound strange, you should vacuum your refrigerator’s cooling coils every three months.  If you have too much dust building up, it will hamper your refrigerator’s energy efficiency and the life expectancy of the compressor.  Also make sure you don’t have any gaps in the door seal.
4. Don’t stuff your refrigerator or freezer.  Cool air is needed to circulate through the interior of the appliance and you make it work harder and less efficiently when you stuff items into the space.