Saving energy

Heating costs will be lower this winter, according to a nationwide forecast. Users of propane and natural gas -- both widely used in Southeast Missouri -- will see the biggest drop in fuel costs. Also affecting fuel expenses this year are predictions of a mild winter.

All of this is good news to a nation recovering from the deepest recession since the Great Depression. How much any household actually spends on winters heating, however, will depend in large part on many factors besides fuel costs and the weather.

Utility companies have been trying to educate customers by providing information on ways to conserve energy. Most of the suggestions are commonsense reminders such as turning off lights in unoccupied rooms, weatherizing windows and doors and adding insulation.

As more and more electronic components such as wide-screen TVs, sound systems, satellite and cable systems and DVD players are added to entertainment centers and more computers and peripherals make their way into homes, electricity consumption climbs even when these gadgets aren't being used. Most have standby power features, which means they are on even when you turn them off.

Finding ways to save energy is a matter of personal choice. The more your try, the more you save.