As energy costs rise, you might be looking for ways to be more energy-efficient:

• Low-flow fixtures can reduce your home water consumption by as much as 50 percent.

• Insulation keeps your house warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and reduces heating and cooling costs by 20 percent. 

• Fluorescent bulbs last 4–10 times longer than regular light bulbs. While they’re more expensive initially, you’ll save about $6 per year on energy bills, according to Energy Star.

• Modern dishwashers use an average of 5.8 gallons of water per cycle, while older models can use as much as 10 gallons per cycle. According to Energy Star, you could save around $8 per year in energy costs by making this upgrade. 

• Programmable thermostats

• Tankless water heaters allow users to shave 20 percent off their water bill. They last 5 to 10 years longer than tank heaters and never run out of hot water. 

• A ceiling fan will help keep your home at a comfortable temperature while reducing your energy bill by about $15 per year, according to Energy Star.