Energy Star is a great example of a way a conscientious homeowner can save money by making his or her home more efficient. Started in 1992 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the program is designed to help consumers find energy efficient appliances in order to save money while reducing greenhouse gases. In order to get the Energy Star seal of approval the appliance has to use 20-30% less energy than the current federal government requirements. The Energy Star appliances range from refrigerators to telephones to furnaces and are widely available.

Every year the average household spends an average of $1300 to $1900 on electricity. That’s a lot of dough, but with the Energy Star appliances, these households can save between $400 and $600 a year. With that kind of savings, Energy Star appliances quickly pay for themselves and then some. In addition to those great savings, the Federal Government has recently announced a “Cash for Appliances” rebate program. The program, similar to “Cash for Clunkers,” will make it easier to recycle your old appliances and provide rebates for new Energy Star appliances. For most states, the program is going live in February and March.

No matter how you choose to make your home more efficient, it’s important to realize that it isn’t hard to do. Whether you unplug your laptops, purchase head-turning gadgets or stick to tried and true Energy Star appliances, you will consume less electricity and save money, a win-win situation.