Powering electronic devices can cost almost as much as powering your kitchen appliances. Electronics and appliances account for 30 cents of every dollar someone spends on electricity. Appliances have become more efficient, but increased use of electronics has offset those gains, according to the Energy Information Administration.

To help save energy and money, set computers to hibernate when they aren’t in use; ask the cable company about replacing the current set-top box with one that meets Energy Star’s 3.0 specifications, effective Sept. 1, 2011. Also inquire about whole-house DVRs, which can eliminate the need for an energy intense recording device on each TV. Get rid of the early-model plasma TVs that could cost well over $200 a year to operate. There are now large screens that cost $70 or less per year to run, including the 55-inch LCD Samsung UN55D65000, $1,900, with an annual energy cost of $29.

Appliances


More efficient appliances perform better than older ones, and the Energy Star program has improved. Starting this year, before a product can display an Energy Star logo, it must be tested for compliance by an accredited third-party lab. Front-loading washers use less energy and water than most top-loaders. Dishwashers with soil sensors adjust the use of hot water depending on how dirty the dishes are, saving energy and water.

Keeping warm

There are more alternative energy options available to homeowners. Geothermal systems, which use the relatively constant temperature of the earth to heat and cool homes, are an emerging alternative to fossil-fuel-powered systems. A home energy audit can identify low-tech, high-yield energy retrofits. Expect to pay between $300 and $800 for a complete audit by a trained pro. The Department of Energy’s website, www.energysavers.gov, has advice for conducting an audit yourself.


There’s little proof that cleaning ducts actually improves efficiencies, and shoddy work can damage the ducts. Only consider this if there is visible mold or vermin, or debris is coming out of supply registers. Before replacing the primary heating or cooling equipment in your home, consider having the duct distribution system sealed and insulated as the savings will be far greater than simply switching to a more efficient furnace.

And think twice about using a space heater to save money, unless you turn the heat down in the rest of the house.

High tech, low tech solutions

Energy management is improving with the use of a “smart grid’’ that adds digital sensors, wireless communications, and other intelligence technologies to the nation’s century-old electrical grid. One smart thing you can do is buy a programmable thermostat, which can lower annual energy costs by as much as 10 percent.

The Lux Smart Temp Touch Screen TX9000TS, $80, was one of the easiest to use during Consumer Reports testing, and it kept temperatures constant.

Keeping heated and cooled air from leaking out of your home from ceilings, walls, and windows could lower annual energy costs by $500. Start by checking if your attic needs additional insulation, then seal and insulate leaky ductwork, and lastly eliminate air leaks with a combination of caulk, foam board, expandable sealant, and weather stripping. Don’t replace windows just to save energy. Consumer Reports tests found it could take up to 20 years to recoup that investment.


Consumer Reports writes columns, reviews, and ratings on cars, appliances, electronics, and other consumer goods. For previous stories, see consumerreports.org.