Howdy kids! Fall Back Day is Sunday and this here is the very last Halloween that will fall after the end of Daylight Savings Time. Why? The Energy Policy Act of 2005, extends Daylight Savings Time by 4 weeks! The result? An estimated energy savings of 1% nationally.

Unfortunately, this year we’ll still be Trick o’ Treating in the dark, so be alert. Here are a few things you should do around the house to prepare for Fall Back Day:

• Replace your power-sucking incandescent light bulbs with energy saving florescent ones, and save as much as 50% off your utility bill.

• While reprogramming the time on your devices, think about putting them all on one power strip that you can shut off at night. Devices can suck power while in “stand-by” mode. Might not want to do that with the DVR, though, if you’re, um, taping late night shows.

• Change the batteries on your smoke detectors.

• Take this opportunity to check your house for hazardous materials. If you find any, dispose of them accordingly.

• Reset your thermostat to drop 5 degrees at night and 10 degrees when no one is home. This could save you up to 20% on your heating bill.

[via consumerreports.org]

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