New Year's resolutions to save energy

As you make out your list of New Year's resolutions, consider including your home when thinking about making healthy changes.

Green isn't just a holiday color -- it's the latest trend in preservation. Setting aside political correctness, there are some genuine advantages to this green stuff. Let's explore some of the green advice that will help "save the planet" -- and put money in your pocket.

Lowering your utility bill at bit each month would be a good thing, right?

One sure way to do that is to purchase appliances that are Energy Star-rated. With Energy Star appliances, your home's overall value will rise in two ways.

First, your house will be worth more because you have newer appliances. Second, the new appliances use less energy, so if you ever put your home on the market, these will be two selling points that might give you an edge.

Unless you are wealthy, you probably won't be able to replace all of your appliances, including the air-conditioning unit, all at once. But slowly, over time, replacing the appliances with Energy Star-rated ones will be a good choice.

Front-load washers use less water, and dishwashers with a light and normal cycle choice give you flexibility for their water use.

If your home has an in-the-wall air conditioner, surround it with plexiglass to help limit air seepage.

And, remember that small, countertop appliances can seep energy even when not in use.

If they have built-in digital clocks or timers, they are using energy. If you must have that coffee ready first thing in the morning, leave that one plugged in, but other, less-used small appliances should be unplugged when not in use.