Your home can be a haven where you come to shut the outside world out, or it can become your worst enemy, bringing all of the elements in with it!  How does saving money on your utilities help bring you closer to your cosmetic surgery goal?  Here are some money-saving tips to help you put more money in your pocket than you see going out!

Electric - Fans should be set up to draw in cool air (shady side of the house) and circulate into the warmer areas.  Get into the habit of turning off ALL lights and appliances that are not being used. The savings will add up quickly. 

Turn the TV off!  Leaving the television on is the number one electricity waster in the world.  When everyone has finished watching TV, especially before bed...turn it off.  I know some people like the sound of the television in the background, kind of like "white noise" that lulls them to sleep, but you'll have to find another way if you want to save money.

Replace all non-reading light bulbs with a lower wattage bulb or even the new "energy plus" bulbs for even more savings over time. 

Get into the habit of hanging your clothes to dry.  Hang clothes from a line in your bathroom or a spare bedroom. 

I cannot stress enough how important it is to check the weather stripping around your doors and windows.  Caulk or foam any area where the outside air has a chance to get in.  Have you ever been sitting in an area in your home only to feel a blast of fresh o

utdoor air hit you?  It means there's some insulating to be done!  If you have an attic, check to make sure it has insulation.  The roll or the loose fill would be fine.  Install ceiling fans throughout the house.  You can then start to decrease air-conditioner usage and during the winter months it helps circulate the warm air that gathers at the ceiling.

Water - Make sure none of the faucets and spigots in your home are leaking or dripping.  Did you know that a slow dripping faucet can accumulate over two gallons of water per hour?  Avoid taking baths and long showers. (Don't avoid taking showers, just baths!) Leave the faucet off while brushing your teeth or shaving, only turn it on when needed.  And finally, if you must wash your car at home, only turn on the hose when you're ready to rinse. No need to keep a continual flow of water coming from your hose if you're not using it.

Gas - If you have a fireplace, light a fire for warmth instead of using the central heating unit. (wood is still cheaper than gas). Wear season appropriate clothing around the house.  Get used to wearing sweaters and pants during the winter months and you'll notice how you won't need to turn the heat up as high.  Lower the temperature on your gas water heater.  Noone needs to have water heated up to 180 degrees.  Turn off the oven and stove a few minutes before the time is up and let the residual heat finish the job.

Phone - Compare the prices of several different long distance companies and ask the representative which plan provides you with the greatest saving based on your call history.  With all of the long distance companies available today, don't be afraid to change to one that is more appropriate for you and one that will save you money, money you can use for your cosmetic surgery procedure.