An estimate from the Department of Energy puts the energy cost in an average American home at $1300 per year. However, In these times of rising energy costs, the number can only go higher and thus it makes sense to introduce certain energy saving measures into your home which will save money as well.

The first step towards saving energy is to insulate your home well as this will prevent heat loss from within during winter and keep the air-conditioning in during summer. Don’t forget to insulate ductworks and hot water pipes as they can save on heating and air-conditioning bills.

The next step would include caulking, sealing and weather-proofing your home which can save as much as 10 percent of your energy bills.

If your budget permits go for newer, more energy-efficient appliances while buying refrigerators, microwave ovens, washer and dryers. Also see that your old air-conditioner and heaters are not using up more energy than the newer models in the market.

Switch to energy-saving fluorescent light bulbs from the incandescent ones and the change will save you around $30 per bulb in a year. Consider using solar energy for heating and lighting purposes.

Make outdoor changes like installing reflective sun –awnings over south-facing windows which would reduce the need for air-conditioners in summer. Moreover planting deciduous trees on the south would keep that side of the house cooler in summer and protect from outside cold in winter.