It's been a harsh winter so far for many places around the world. In the United States alone, 49 out of the 50 states had snow on the ground (as of a few weeks ago), leaving Hawaii as the only snow-less state. And even though temperatures in Southern California have ranged anywhere between 32 degrees and 80+ degrees in the last few weeks, many states are experiencing temperatures below zero.

The other day my friend Nan said temperatures in NM were right around 0 degrees, but of course "warmer than yesterday's 10 below". That's a good way to look at it!

It was Nan's comment that prompted me to put together this list of 10 green tips you can use to help you save money during winter. I mean, weather conditions may be bad, but there's always something good you can do and if you can save some money while doing it, all the better. Right?!

1) Let Nature help you exercise: Rather than paying to go to the gym, get outside - shovel some snow, go for a run/walk, clean up the yard, breathe in some fresh air, etc.

2) Reduce home oil costs: Even though home oil is about 16% more effective at heating homes than natural gas, home oil costs add up quick during a cold winter. Check out how a simple catalyst could help you lower your home oil costs.

3) Power down: When you aren't using items, turn them off. Use a power strip with your electronics so they aren't sucking power while you are aren't using them. Put lights on timers if you are going to be away, so they aren't on all night/day long.

4) Increase home energy efficiency: In cold weather areas, it's good advice to "winterize" your home. Here are a variety of inexpensive tips and tricks that can help you keep your house warm without cranking up the thermostat.

5) Be prepared: One of the simplest ways to save money in winter is to be prepared for the bad weather. Taking the time to prepare before going out in the cold or before that next storm comes in could be the difference between spending a few dollars or a few thousand dollars.

6) Cut down your water waste: Only use your washing machine when you have a full load of clothes, turn off the water while you brush your teeth, add a bottle of water to your toilet tank, compost food waste rather than putting it down your disposal, take shorter showers, check for leaks, etc. There are so many simple ways to conserve water.

(But please don't put the dog in there)

7) Turn down, bundle up: Get a programmable thermostat or set yours for a specific temperature, so it doesn't stay on all day. Plus if you bundle up, you can turn your thermostat down even further. Why waste money on heat when you can find other ways to stay warm.

8) Drive smart, drive safe: Driving in bad conditions, whether it be snow, ice, rain, etc. is very different from driving on a bright, sunny day. If you practice some biofriendly driving tips, you will save yourself time, money and often some much un-wanted frustration.

9) Let in natural light: Even though days are shorter during the winter months, whenever you can open the blinds and let in some light, you can save money on your electric bills. It's also a good chance to look outside. Who knows, you may even be enticed to go outside.

10) Improve fuel economy: Since fuel economy can drop significantly in winter, you can save money and lower your winter emissions by learning about what causes fuel economy to drop in cold weather.

But, whether you try these tips or some of your own, do yourself a favor and take some time to figure out what green action(s) you can take to save yourself some money this winter. And if you have any good tips....don't forget to share them here!

Photo credits:

Stop snowing by jpctalbot via Flickr

Man w/shovel in snow image by woodleywonderworks via Flickr

Saving Water image by Keng_Susumpow via Flickr