With winter quickly approaching, consumers need to be aware of how they can shave money off rising energy bills. Tips to help slash energy costs Nearly two-thirds of the energy consumption in an average household goes toward heating and cooling, and another 18 percent is used heating water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. TVs, VCRs, alarm clocks and radios all drain electricity even when they're turned off, Spencer says. Refrigerators and other large appliances can boost electricity bills if they are not operating efficiently.
Poor insulation can eat up hundreds of dollars energy costs each year.
The Department of Energy estimates that consumers lose a total of a billion dollars per year to energy vampires. Consumers can find Energy Star labels on home electronics, computer equipment and appliances, from many different manufacturers. The program was developed to help consumers identify energy-saving products. More information For tips on cutting energy visit Enerficiency. Consumers can also find valuable energy efficiency tips by visiting the Department of Energy online .