Someone asked me in a previous blog how I keep my electric bill so low ($41 this past month), so I thought I'd share my methods with everyone. I make sure to keep lights and computers and such turned off whenever they're not necessary. I switched to the compact florescent bulbs in our 3 rooms that we need the light for the longest periods of time. I wash clothes in cold water only and only wash clothes and dishes when there are full loads. I do dry my clothes, but always make sure the lint trap is cleaned before each load, and dry for the minimum amount of time necessary. If I'm doing multiple loads, I make sure to be prompt about putting a new load in the dryer as soon as the first one finishes so the heat isn't wasted. I also unplug things that use electricity even when they're off, such as my laptop and cellphone charger, the microwave, etc. It helps that I live in the mountains where it doesn't get too hot, but we dress in light clothes i.e. tanktops and shorts indoors and use box fans and drink ice water to keep cool (we don't have air conditioning). If it's really hot, I take a quick cool/lukewarm shower so my wet hair will help keep me cool when I get out. We have low-flow shower heads in our showers which helps preserve the hot water. I use cold water to brush my teeth and rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. All of this may sound like a lot, but once you make it your regular routine, it really doesn't feel like any effort, and it truly makes a huge impact on the electric bill. Good luck everyone!