Energy conservation makes sense in more ways than one. We help stretch out the oil reserves for a much longer time, we help the environment by reducing greenhouse emissions, we lower the adverse impact of pollution on our heath and we save on utility expenses. While the initial cost associated with energy saving products can be higher, this is more than made up for over time through a reduction in energy bills. The only obstacle to energy efficiency in homes today is the lack of information. There is so much that one can do to make their homes energy efficient and, therefore, homes that raise the lowest utility bills.

To further the cause of saving energy, the US Environmental Protection Agency joined hands with the US Department of Energy (DoE) in 1992 to launch the Energy Star program. The government estimates that in 2007 alone, Energy Star helped people across the nation save up to $16 billion in utility bills and decrease greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to the emissions from 27 million cars. Energy Star, which proposes energy efficient solutions for homes and businesses, estimates a reduction of almost a third of a home’s energy expenses without the family having to sacrifice any aspect of the current lifestyle.

Energy Star certifies products in more than 50 categories. It also provides energy efficient solutions for remodeling or renovating homes. And when looking for a new house, there are Energy Star guidelines that one can check to determine the energy saving quotient of a particular home. Energy Star also offers a Home Energy Yardstick online to check your home’s energy efficiency.

Here are the broad categories of energy saving products for the home:

Heating and cooling: This category makes up for up to 50% of the utility bill. Hence, by using energy saving products an average American family can save approximately $1,000 per annum. The category includes air-source heat pumps, central air conditioners, dehumidifiers and ceiling fans.

Home electronics: One can save circa 15% of the utility bill by using energy saving products that fall under this category. This category includes battery chargers, DVD players, home theatre systems, televisions, and external power adapters.

Roof products: According to the energystar.gov site, Americans spend about $40 billion every year to air condition buildings. This represents more than 15% of all the electricity generated in the US. Roofs that are reflective and allow for proper insulation can reduce energy bills associated with heating and cooling.

Appliances: Energy saving products that fall under this category could use 10%-50% less energy than regular products. This category includes washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, water coolers and dehumidifiers.

Lighting: This category includes compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and energy saving ceiling fans and light fixtures. According to the energystar.gov site, if the five most frequently used light fixtures/ bulbs is replaced by energy saving ones in every American home, the country would save almost $8 billion per annum in energy costs and prevent pollution equal to that caused by nearly ten million cars.

Here are some energy saving tips for your home:

• Install a programmable thermostat and ensure that it is set to a comfortable level rather than too high or too low. The house won’t get heated any faster if the thermostat is set at a higher than needed level.
• Replace furnace filters and service compressors regularly.
• Check the insulation level of every part of your house, from the attic to behind switch plates. If necessary, upgrade the insulation of the house. This onetime expense can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run.
• Set all heating and cooling equipment to the “energy save” mode.
• Weatherproof your house, from window glazing to using caulk to seal all air leaks.
• Set your water heater to about 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a comfortable temperature that is neither too hot nor too cold. Taking showers rather than baths will help conserve water while saving on the energy used to heat more water.
• Check the instructions of your washing machine and dish washer. Use them only for full loads. Air drying dishes rather than using the dryer will go a long way in saving energy.
• Use cold water to wash your clothes and dishes. Cold water is actually better for garments.
• Switch off appliances when not in use. Computers should also be turned off till the next time you use them. Use power strips to avoid appliances drawing electricity while in the standby mode.
• Motion detectors, dimmers and timers could also be installed to save electricity.
• Use smaller appliances wherever possible.
• Make sure your refrigerator door is never left open for too long. Check the temperature setting and do not overcool your refrigerator.

A good way to start replacing regular products with energy saving products is to conduct a survey of the available products and their respective prices and then choose the ones that you need before you actually go out and buy them. The Consortium of Energy Efficiency (CEE) also provides certification for energy efficient appliances. If you are looking to buy a washing machine or dish washer, check for the CEE logo.

Using alternative sources of energy, such as biofuel, for your car and heating equipment will also enhance the energy efficiency of your home. Making changes at home to save energy does not entail huge costs. Neither does it mean that the family has to sacrifice any comforts. All one has to do is learn more about how the house can become more energy efficient and then see the difference it makes to the utility bills. Energy saving does pay off in more ways than one!