http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/finance/insurance/10-key-reasons-why-a-person-needs-life-insurance.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/insurance/10-key-reasons-why-a-person-needs-life-insurance.html Mon, 13 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Since there are certain financial commitments you need to meet throughout life and do contribute in some way to the family income, you need to provide something even in death—to secure the home, help the family meet expenses for a while, protect dependant parents, or secure the children or spouse.

Financial obligations could include funeral expenses, unsettled medical bills, mortgages, business commitments, meeting the college expenses of the children, and so on.

How much insurance a person needs would vary, depending on lifestyle, financial needs and sources of income, debts, and the number of dependants? An insurance adviser or agent would recommend that you take insurance that amounts to five to ten times your annual income. It is best to sit down with an expert and go through the reasons why you should consider insurance and what kind of insurance planning would benefit you.

As an important part of your financial plan insurance provides peace of mind for any uncertainties in life.

1. Life insurance correctly planned will on premature death provide funds to deal with monies due, mortgages, and living expenses. It offers protection to the family you leave behind and serves as a cash resource.

2. It secures your hard earned estate on death by providing tax free cash which can be utilized to pay estate and death duties and to tide over business and personal expenses.

3. Life insurance can have a savings or pension component that provides for you during retirement.

4. Some policies have riders like coverage of critical illness or term insurance for the children or spouse. There are certain rules regarding eligibility for riders which you will need to determine clearly.

5. Having a valid insurance policy is considered as financial assets which improves your credit rating when you need health insurance or a home loan or business loan.

6. In case of bankruptcy, the cash value as well as death benefits of an insurance policy is exempt from creditors.

7. Life insurance can be planned such that it will cover even your funeral expenses.

8. Term life insurance has double benefits, it protects and you can get your money back during strategic points in your life.

9. Insurance protects your business from financial loss or any liabilities in case a business partner dies.

10. It can contribute towards maintaining a family’s life style when one contributing partner suddenly dies.

Insurance is vital to good financial planning and security but you would need to assess your personal risk and long term commitments. Insurance stands a person in good stead throughout life and can be used in case of emergencies during a life time by requesting a withdrawal or loan.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Insurancequote.com/ , the premier website to find insurance quotes including health insurance, home insurance, auto insurance, life insurance, travel insurance, medical insurance, insurance company's reports and more. His article profile can be found at the premier Insurance Article Submission Directory http://www.1888Articles.com/insurance-articles-41_4.html

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/internet/online-business/outsourcing-means-fast-efficient-turnover-and-a-competitive-edge.html http://www.articletrader.com/internet/online-business/outsourcing-means-fast-efficient-turnover-and-a-competitive-edge.html Sat, 11 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
The key is to outsource work which is non-essential or areas where the company lacks expertise. This frees valuable resources which can focus on areas of competitive advantage.

Growth can be enumerated in many ways not just in costs saved.

When you outsource a specific project you save on time and resources spent on training required to complete the project successfully. You can harness the talent, technology, and expertise of niche providers. By outsourcing, you can appoint a consultant or company who has core competencies in the field and can complete the project within the given time. The company saves on hiring permanent employees, training, benefit payments, hidden costs, absenteeism, requirements of workspace, and equipment.

The company focuses on core aspects and transfers the nitty-gritty of non core aspects to outsourced companies. This just means fast and efficient turnover as well as a competitive edge.

Outsourcing is a way to maximize workforce flexibility without the added burdens of permanent financial commitments. One uses highly qualified consultants who can complete a particular project in no time at all.

Time is money and by outsourcing a company saves valuable time which can be channeled productively, leading to growth.

Capital is used efficiently without unnecessary wastage in overheads, office space, technology, and training. Outsourcing spurs growth by providing skilled manpower and increased productivity at lower costs. If the outsourcing is selected intelligently, it leads to tax breaks saving the company thousands of dollars.

Further, business risk is shared by the outsourcing company which will know how to minimize or avoid risk in their area of expertise.

The business world is moving at a fast pace and companies need to provide quick service and low rates. Outsourcing allows a firm to do just this, provides the most advanced technology, efficient service, and low rates.

A company can, by outsourcing certain sectors provide in house support which will not be otherwise possible without expansion. So, one can gain economies of scale, efficiency as well as expanded expertise.

To summarize, growth of a company when outsourcing is adopted can be evinced in:

• Cash flow.

• Emphasis on core competencies and long term value creation.

• Minimization of risks by reliance on experts.

• Using external talent and technologies when essential and keeping overheads small and manageable.

• Infrastructure of large firms without associated burdens of large offices, greater number of permanent employees, and hidden costs of maintenance.

• Improved process and project deliveries.

• Service improvements.

• Technology infusion.

• Little or no capital investments.

• Better project costing.

• Asset conversion.

In the modern world outsourcing is an intelligent way of handling a growing business poised for success in every field. also freelances for Submit free Press Release Site

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888OutsourceServices.com/ , the premier Outsourcing Directory provides help on finding outsourcing companies including call center outsourcing, it service outsourcing, financial outsourcing, accounting outsourcing and more. He also freelances for Submit free Press Release Site http://www.1888PressRelease.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-improvement/mortgages-10-steps-to-reducing-monthly-mortgages.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-improvement/mortgages-10-steps-to-reducing-monthly-mortgages.html Sat, 11 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Cost factors will include: total cost of home; maximum monthly housing cost (approximately 32% of your gross monthly income); and monthly debt load (not more than 40% of your gross monthly income). Try and keep the debt ratio as low as possible.

A reduced monthly mortgage payment is a dream come true for just about everyone. There are many ways in which one can do this:

• Since interest rates keep changing you would need to keep a track of changes and opt for refinance at a lower rate when the time is right. This would reduce your outlay considerably. Do the calculations to determine your savings after paying closing costs and other fees.

• Consider changing from a short term mortgage to a long term mortgage. This will tide you over the financial crunch and enable you to pay lower monthly payments. If your situation strengthens you could always foreclose the loan.

• Request for cancellation of the insurance you are paying to secure your mortgage. Once 20% of your loan is settled and you have established a good credit history ask the lender to wave payment towards the insurance. This will help reduce your monthly outlay.

• Find out where lower homeowner insurance rates are being offered. You will succeed in reducing your PITI payment, principal, interest, tax, and insurance payment.

• Check your calculations regularly make sure all adjustments are being made correctly.

• Choose a mortgage that offers a degree of flexibility. In this interest is paid only on the balance outstanding every day. This means you can pay off the mortgage in accordance to your earnings.

• Consider an accelerated equity plan or biweekly payments. This will reduce your burden quicker and yield big benefits.

• Study the details of your mortgage; find out what constitutes the principal and what the interest. Every month try and pay a little more than the amount due to be adjusted towards the principal. By reducing the principal you will save considerable outlay of funds as interest.

• Try variable interest or short term loans. Find out about ‘teaser rates”, loans which attract a lower interest for asset period.

• Consolidate your loans into a single loan with lower payments. Study all the loans, home, car, education, and so on. Make a table and analyze the outlay. Consult a mortgage specialist and find out what consolidation will mean and how much it will reduce your monthly payments by.

A home loan or mortgage is a debt that can be long term and a burden. Advisable is to pay off the mortgage as early as possible. Handle your finances wisely by keeping an eye on interest rates, insurance, and loan disbursements.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/home-improvement/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Home Improvements Forum including topics on buying, selling and insuring, automobile, electronics, electronics and more. He also freelances for the premier Mortgage site http://www.1888Mortgages.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/science/education/10-reasons-to-go-to-college.html http://www.articletrader.com/science/education/10-reasons-to-go-to-college.html Sat, 11 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
1. A college education secures our future. The number of employment opportunities is greater and statistics reveal that most leaders are college grads.

2. If you have a college education you will make more money which in turn will enable you to have a better lifestyle. If a high school graduate earns US$ 34,303 annually, a college graduate will earn US$ 56,334, and a person with a professional qualification will net at least US$ 99,411.

3. It is not just earnings. A college education makes you a rounded person. It shapes your communication skills, expands your knowledge base, makes you methodical and organized, and exposes you to a whole new world of learning.

4. People with a college education have better value systems and are healthier. They are able to guide their family positively.

5. College can help you qualify in fields you are interested in. So if you are an innovator, inventor, or healer, or artist you can train in the specific field and qualify.

6. According to experts, college graduates are self confident, have greater knowledge of governance, are less likely to become criminals, are emotionally and financially secure, make better partners and parents, and have a deeper understanding of human nature.

7. College instills a deep sense of right and wrong and is they very essence of a democratic world.

8. Education opens the doors to many things like multiple jobs, career choices, the chance to further education at any point in life, and the option of teaching others what you have learnt. Be it a child, family member, or a poor person you meet.

9. College education is an investment in you that yields much more than Wall Street investments.

10. College educated citizens will ensure the continuing success of the “American Dream.” The ability to see the right path and work for peace and prosperity.

Students according to Jose Marti a patriot are the very ramparts of a nation and the strongest advocates of freedom. Education creates a conscience and as a result a better human being. College education eventually becomes a legacy for future generations. Most succeeding generations of college educated people go to college themselves. The value of a good education becomes ingrained in their genes. Huge stones can be moved with muscle power but it is brain power that tells you how to move it and what can be done with it.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Onlinecolleges.com/ , the premier website to find top ranking colleges online directory including topics on public colleges, private colleges, online college, college course online, information on college costs, financial aid, degrees awarded, enrollments and more. He also freelances for premier Discussion Site http://www.1888Discuss.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/internet/domains/use-good-business-sense-to-create-a-hefty-domain-names-portfolio.html http://www.articletrader.com/internet/domains/use-good-business-sense-to-create-a-hefty-domain-names-portfolio.html Fri, 10 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Domain name investing is a business in which according to the cyber gurus you have complete control over your investment. To become successful you must master the art of buying and know when to sell. Success means two things, guts and vision. There are domain name players who capture a slice of pie by purchasing thousands of domain names pertaining to a specific sector. They are then in full control of the demand as well as selling price. The money spinning trick is to release the names slowly in the market. The domains that stay in their custody are not “dead” investments. They are parked such that they generate revenue from “pay-per-click” advertisements.

Domain portfolios can be crowded with many names even over 40,000 names or just contain a few jewels, top-notch domains. If bought wisely domain names can generate enough revenues to pay for themselves many times over.

• Buy only good domains by using DomainsBot and HotLists on sites like Namewinner or Pool to determine which ones are worthy and which ones are not.

• Buy short and specific domain names.

• Be sure to get the ones purchased by you appraised. There are several sites like www.appraisalblast.com that will do the needful.

• While you are waiting for the big sale let the domain names generate revenue for you. Set up parking pages that provide links to other web pages earning “pay per click” revenues. Ensure that traffic is not just generated but sustained. The name must be such that it has natural positioning. If it is not so, you must either sell off the domain name that is a junk or dud or make effort to develop it. What ensures and sustains traffic at a steady rate is content. To this end, start up a website like a membership portal, music site, games site, or news feed. The next step is to build traffic by setting up the domain names strategically. The aim is to run simultaneously many revenue generating streams like selling a specific service, displaying related advertisements, putting up content to tease visitors, or offering unique one of a kind experiences to visitors so that they come repeatedly to the site.

• For selling a domain name there are three main avenues.

o Land a sale on ebay by starting at a low price which invites bidders. Make sure the domain name is a part of the description. Include an appraisal of the domain name projecting its true value. Be sure to highlight all the important factors. Optimize your chances by getting a bold listing and aiming to end the auction on Sunday night.

o Opt for selling on established domain sites like Afternic or Sedo. They take a commission on sale but it would be worth it if your domain name commands a handsome price.

o If it is not a very important domain name try selling on domain forums.

• If you have had the foresight to purchase “a treasure” then contact large business houses to whom the domain name may be relevant. Be sure to let them know why your domain name will be of benefit to them. If you are successful you will get a very good price for the domain.

The keys are:

• A quality domain name with a short recognizable nomenclature.

• A name with no numbers.

• Marketability. For example if there is a stock market boom then domains that pertain to this field will fetch very good value.

• A fool proof marketing strategy.

A major domain name player must watch the market, know how to monetize his portfolio, balance his investments between high-profile key word based domains and mediocre ones, plan on recovering his investments by thinking of innovations like Rick Schwartz’s “click capitalist,” plan. In this he aims to invest traffic generated by domains into web-developer sites asking for stock as exchange.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/domain/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Domain Forum including topics on domain trading, domain registration, domain sale and offers, adult domain and more. He also freelances for the premier Domain Site http://www.1866Domain.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/computers/software/tips-to-protect-your-pc-files-from-external-attack.html http://www.articletrader.com/computers/software/tips-to-protect-your-pc-files-from-external-attack.html Fri, 10 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Protect your PC by:

• Blocking hackers and viruses by installing the latest firewall and antivirus software. It is advisable to install a software firewall even if you have a hardware firewall in your system. A software firewall is designed to query whether or not it should permit “X,” access. The user can specify which applications can access the port and which cannot. A bi-directional firewall such as ZoneAlarm3 and Personal Firewall 5 will monitor both inbound and outbound traffic preventing Trojans and backdoor programs from functioning.

• Block downloads that install unwanted programs by using the options in Internet explorer to block all software from source X specified by you.

• Install software programs that will constantly scan your PC for spyware, adware, dialers, and web bug traces which can create a nuisance and cause crashes, slow down systems, or steal financial information. By adding a schedule you can instruct NoAdware to automatically scan your PC at set times for in-filtrations.

• Immunize your PC and prevent malicious add ons to your system.

• Configure your PC browser to protect you when you are working online. Use a ‘real time shield’ and prevent intrusions. Be sure to click the “protect IE Favorites” box and ensure that no thief can add an URL without your permission to your browser’s favorites list. This will block offensive and dangerous websites from entering your PC environs.

• Say “no” to any web address or site that instructs you to download specific software to view their pages. Such software can contain a virus, Trojan horse, or auto dialer.

• Create a regular back up schedule for your work. Once a week is ideal if you are a virtual worker or running a business. This will minimize any damage should problems arise.

• Be sure to update your software with the latest patches and bug fixes. Then use the updated or enhanced security settings provided by the updates. There are in built ways which you can operate to block damaging viruses, stamp out cookies, and keep unwanted visitors away from your computer system. The method is easy for example if you are using Internet Explorer just go to Tools-Internet Options-Privacy tab. Click the edit button to accept or reject a specific cookie. Go to the advanced settings and check block third party cookies.

• Scan all downloaded files before use. Never launch executable or scriptable files namely those that have dot.exe; .bat ;.doc; .vbs extensions. Do not access attachments of any kind before they are certified as safe.

• Remove file sharing and windows printer options these increase vulnerability of the PC.

• Encrypt your e-mail and embed an identifying key.

Better be sure than sorry. Preventing snoops is easier than trying to recover after an attack. Take informed steps to protect yourself and your PC.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/software-download/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Software Download Forum including topics on all about software, download, spyware, freeware, shareware and more. He also freelances for the premier Software Download Site http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/internet/web-hosting/7-essentials-of-moving-to-anew-web-host.html http://www.articletrader.com/internet/web-hosting/7-essentials-of-moving-to-anew-web-host.html Fri, 10 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
The first step is to ensure that you have all legal documents and contracts with you. Then make sure you have accurate and updated copies of all content, databases, scripts, and clientele lists. A back up needs to be done as a matter of routine not just when you need to move. Trouble can rear it head in the form of hardware failure or unexplained data losses.

Research the market thoroughly before deciding on a new hosting service. List your requirements and look for a host that can exceed your needs. It is not just bandwidth that you need to look at. Consider technical support, upgrading options, as well as whether the host is keeping up with new developments in the field.

It is important to run from the two web hosts simultaneously for a period until all debugging is carried out and problems are solved. Activate your new solution and upload all your pages, databases, and scripts. Use the new IP address provided by the new company and test the site.

Once things function satisfactorily you must transfer the DNS servers from your previous host to the new one. The transition may take around two weeks so it is essential to keep both sites functional during that transition period. Check mails from both sites until such time you don’t receive any communications to the old site. Once you are sure, discontinue your old hosting service.

Be sure to:

• Select a new service that is similar to your old one as far as technology is concerned. And that you are using the latest design software and that the host has the latest server versions. This will maximize site efficacy.

• Check carefully the hosting service agreement pertaining to the new host.

• Choose a dedicated environment that will offer more capacity for dealing with online customers and provide adequate bandwidth allowances.

• Check out the benefits of an annual plan against a monthly one.

• Find out if your new web hosts are reliable, honest, and competent. The people running the web hosting service must comprehend the technology thoroughly and keep abreast of new developments.

• Check forums to see if the new host you have selected has good reviews and whether there are any valid complaints.

• The host must ensure that your site is up and running 24/7 for 365 days. The pages must load instantly; to this end the web host must have state of the art computer systems. CGI routines, autoresponders, PHP, ASP, SSI scripts, credit card gateways, and so on. All systems must function smoothly.

Be a wise and informed mover.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/web-hosting/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Web Hosting Forum including topics on technical support, security issues, domain name discussion and more. He also freelances for the premier Web Hosting Site http://www.1866WebHosting.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/computers/switch-to-broadband-phone-providers-and-save-hundreds-of-dollars-per-year.html http://www.articletrader.com/computers/switch-to-broadband-phone-providers-and-save-hundreds-of-dollars-per-year.html Tue, 07 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Broadband phone services need a high-speed Internet connection and do work with wireless ISPs. However, there are still concerns over voice quality, reliability, and security.
The advantages are:

• Great savings in phone bills especially in long distance calling.

• Choice of area code and addition of other inbound numbers for a small fee. This means you can have local numbers in multiple area codes around the country.

• The option of a second full service line at low cost with unlimited long distance service. Can be used as a voice or fax line.

• Availability of comprehensive on-line control over call forwarding, time of forwarding or number forwarded to. E-mail notifications, voice mail messages or e-mail or voice mail, can all be arranged.

• One can access voice mail by taking along the phone adapter from hotels, offices, internet cafes, and so on. The VoiP service can travel with you.

VoIP can work with:

• A home office PC in which the software is loaded along with a headset or specialized broadband phone connected to the PC. Advantages of software based VoIP are that it allows integration with other software, offers lowest calling rates, uses existing hardware, utilizes few power connection, and needs little space. Disadvantages are that the system needs the computer on at all times, cannot use existing telephone equipment, and blocks valuable computer resources.

Or

• With an adapter box that links the high speed net modem and the home office network or PC. Advantages of this are that it functions independently of the computer, uses landline equipment, allows vendor control of adaptor support and programming. Disadvantages are that it is not compatible with computer software, needs space and power outlets, and lends limited control.
The new technology is provided by many companies like AT&T CallVantage, Broad Voice, BroadVox, Lingo, PacketB, and Vonage. The approximate costs are from US$ 14.95 to US$ 19.99 per month for residences and US$ 29.99 to US$49.95 per month for small businesses. There is a start up fee of US$ 39.94 to US$ 138.00 charged by some companies.
More information on the options as well as services can be gleaned from:

• What Broadband? at http://www.broadband-service-uk.com/why.html covers different broadband suppliers, has in depth articles as well as FAQs.

• The Connection Store at http://broadband-phone.connection-store.com/ features broadband phone vendors, a service provider comparison, as well as articles and quick links.

• Database Systems Corp at http://www.databasesystemscorp.com/psphoneservice_directory_broadband.htm has detailed information directory on broadband service providers.

• Broadband Phone at http://www.broadbandtry.com/broadbandphone/ --has information about broad band phones, providers, news, as well as blogs. There are links as well as articles and resources.

Using broadband phone services can save you considerable amounts in phone bills. Make an in depth study of options in your area. Weigh the pros and cons and reap the many benefits. Technology can really work for you.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/voip/, the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for VOIP Forum including topics on online voip, voip phone, voip service providers, voip solutions, business voip, internet telephony voip and more. His article profile can be found at the premier VOIP site http://www.1866Voip.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/9-simple-tips-to-protect-you-and-your-things-while-moving.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/9-simple-tips-to-protect-you-and-your-things-while-moving.html Mon, 06 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Determine how much you are allowed to take with you. Find out the floor space in your new home. Be practical and:

• Make a list of “must haves.”

• Arrange to put all other things in storage or have an auction or garage sale.

• Put aside things you want to give to charity.

• Disconnect, clean, and repair appliances a week before packers arrive.

• Make arrangements to transport plants and pets or find new homes for them. Most packers will not transport plants and pets. You will need to take them by car, train, or plane to your new destination.

Here are a few guidelines:

• Hire professionals to pack fine china, breakable antiques, silverware, furniture, and heavy appliances. This will save breakage costs and the consignment can be insured.

• Undertaking to handle the bulk of packing yourself, it saves money. Start with non fragile things: books, clothes, linen, shoes, as well as inexpensive kitchen ware.

 Use small boxes –no box should weigh more than say 15-20 kilos.

 Jewelry and other irreplaceable items should be handled and transported personally. Pack with bubble wrap and carry it yourself as luggage.

 Boxes must be of the ideal size and good strength. Wardrobe boxes are ideal for expensive clothing. Use padded dish boxes for packing chinaware. Use free boxes obtained from the supermarket for jeans, t-shirts, shoes, toys, and everyday non-fragile items like tea cups and coffee mugs.

 Use as buffer: old newspapers, bubble wrap, sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and towels. Every item should be wrapped individually. Fill empty paces between objects with torn paper bits so that things don’t rattle around when shifted.

 Pack plates and glass objects vertically instead of flat.

 Seal boxes using duct tape or plastic strapping used by movers.

 Mark each box clearly—put a number or code that corresponds to your master list. Paste a label with name, address, destination, and contact number. Use pre-printed labels or an indelible marker.

 Boxes containing fragile items should be marked clearly as “fragile” with an arrow showing which the “top” side is.

• Make an inventory. Include a detailed list with corresponding box number and which room it is for in the new home.

• Pack a first day box. Mark it to be opened first. Load it last. It should contain: medicines, food, baby needs, and copies of house documents, emergency numbers, soap, towels, and insecticide. Include a few sleeping bags in case of emergency.

Move economically. Make a plan or timetable. Start weeks in advance. Try and locate a plan of your new home so that you can decide what to take with you and what to store.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888MovingCompanies.com/, the premier website to find help on moving including moving companies search, compare movers, moving insurance, auto transport, moving tips and more. He also freelances for the premier Submit Article Services site http://www.Submit-Article-Services.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-improvement/10-ways-to-cut-your-electric-bill.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/home-improvement/10-ways-to-cut-your-electric-bill.html Mon, 06 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Conservation of electricity benefits you personally as you will pay lower bills. Consider:

1. Doing an energy audit. This will tell you how and when you use energy and where the wastage lies. You will be able to make an “energy savings plan” by pinpointing exactly how you can cut back on energy consumption. Some ideas may be as simple as don’t leave the coffee machine on at all times.

2. Think about resetting the thermostat ten degrees lower during the night. If you can do this for say approximately eight hours a day you will save 10% on electricity without sacrificing comfort. Insulate the home in winter by drawing shut the drapes.

3. Check all insulation in the house. If you increase attic insulation to around 12 inches the electricity consumption will reduce by 20 percent.

4. Plant more trees around the house these will cool the house in summer and insulate the house in winter. Studies show that a green cover benefits in many ways.

5. Have all electricity wires and outlets checked for leakage. Check all fuses and appliances.

6. Fluorescent light bulbs are energy efficient. They use 75% less energy than ordinary light bulbs. These have a longer life and contribute to great savings.

7. Use energy efficient appliances. These use less energy and believe it or not a high efficiency refrigerator uses less electricity than a light bulb.

8. When you are away even for a few hours or days you should turn off and unplug all electrical appliances and turn settings on the thermostat, water heater, and refrigerator to the lowest setting.

9. Ensure that you use a water-saving shower head. Water heating costs for a family can be lowered by at least US$ 250 a year.

10. Weatherize your home. This helps reduce heating bills by 20% and cooling by at least 10 percent. Even when building a home or decorating it use weather friendly materials—those that are not good conductors of heat and cold. Install windows and glass panes in the roof in such away that you use sunlight to light up the rooms during day light hours. Make an effort to switch off lights and fans when leaving a room. Ensure that the filters in air conditioners and heaters are always cleaned and free of clog and dust.

If you live an energy efficient lifestyle you will see the numbers on the energy bill actually reducing. The power to cut energy costs is well within your control. It is as simple as only washing full loads and that to in cold water. Use the hot wash option only for very dirty clothes. Cook food only just before you are ready to eat that way you can save reheating costs as well as refrigerating costs of storing the food. Turn the thermostat of the refrigerator to minimum in cold or cool weather. Switch off freezers if they are not in use. Small contributions can all add up to significant amounts of power saved. And, power saved means money in the bank.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/home-improvement/, the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Home Improvement including topics on exterior home improvement, gardening, decorating, buying and selling, electrical home improvement and more. He also freelances for the premier Mortgage site http://www.1888Mortgages.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>