If you're like me you've probably spent the first few days of the New Year meticulously adding up the receipts you've accumulated, like those fresh new pounds from too much Grandma's cooking over the holidays. Once the shock of realizing it'll take months to recover from all of this wears off, breathe a sigh of relief.

Now, I'm no physical trainer so you're on your own when it comes to losing those extra pounds, but I can help you save more money this year and it doesn't involve taking on a second job.

It's quite simple actually, just Tweak Those Leaks! A good place to start is your doors and windows. Take a few minutes to walk around your house and inspect the doors and windows. If you see any cracks around door or window frames a quick fix could include caulking or weather-stripping to seal those leaks. Another place commonly overlooked is your homes electrical outlets. Simply but some inexpensive plastic child safety plugs and put them in your outlets, especially those located on an exterior wall.

You're already well on your way to savings but don't stop there. Air may not be the only thing leaking from your home. Water leaks can really add up. The first place to go is the bathroom. According to Denver Water, toilets commonly form leaks. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait several minutes (at least 15). After that time, if any of the color is visible in the bowl you have a leak.

Denver Water also says dripping faucets and showerheads can waste hundreds to even thousands of gallons of water a year. Also remember to check under sinks for any bulges in hoses or damp spots which may mean there's a leak.

Here's a couple of good websites to check out:

http://greenliving.lovetoknow.com/Water_Conservation_at_Home

http://www.water.utah.gov/Brochures/CHKLIST.HTM

http://www.powerhousetv.com/stellent2/groups/public/documents/pub/phtv_se_000498.hcsp