Keep the Environment AND Your Wallet Green

by WiredBerries Editors — August 1, 2007

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average family spends $1400 a year on energy bills. This past season, prices soared 45 percent. Sometimes little things can make a big difference. For example, just by installing a $50 programmable thermostat, you can slice up to 30 percent off your home's heating and cooling costs. Nothing wrong with wanting to save the environment and your money, now you can do a little of both! To discover more simple ways to lower your bills, and be more environmentally friendly, visit the U.S. Department of Energy's Web site. First go to "Information for Consumers," then click on "Your Home" to find the "Home Energy Saver," which is an easy energy-audit tool. You'll need to enter some general information about your house, such as the year it was built, the number of windows, and the type of heating system used. The more specific you are, the more detailed the advice. Based on your input, the tool will automatically generate tips for how to improve energy efficiency.