Seven worthwhile energy-efficient products

There's no shortage of gadgets designed to help you use less energy. Yet some of the most effective energy-efficient products lining store shelves are also the simplest.

The following low-tech items will save energy and money with minimal effort and investment.

1. Power strips can help put an end to vampire power. There's a wide range of choices from simple to sophisticated, but the general concept is the same. If you plug your electronic devices into one and turn it off when you're not using, you'll reduce standby power consumption and save more than $100 a year according to the Natural Resources Defense Council. Some, such as the Smart Strip, have the ability to know when your computer powers down and can then cut power to the peripherals. You can find strips with motion sensors or even a remote control. The Kill A Watt identifies the biggest energy drainers in your home, but try borrowing one from a friend or neighbor since you only need to use it once.

2. Indoor drying racks allow you to air dry your clothing in the winter and in places where hanging clothes to dry outdoors is difficult or even illegal. Abandoning the dryer in the summer can save you $43.60, so imagine how much you'll save if you air-dry your clothing all year round (although even just bypassing the dryer sometimes will save energy and money). While you're at it, wash your clothes in cold water for additional savings.

3. Installing efficient showerheads and faucets will save water and the energy it takes to heat it. The result: You'll spend less on water and electric bills.

4. Compact fluorescent light bulbs use about 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last longer so you'll buy fewer bulbs. There's no need to sacrifice quality since some CFLs outperform traditional bulbs. You'll save at least $30 in electricity costs over a bulb's lifetime. Click here to learn about mercury and disposal issues. Environmental Defense Fund offers buying tips and a tool to calculate cost savings.

5. If you use a programmable thermostat properly you can save as much as 15% a year on your heating bill. In the winter, keep your thermostat at 68 to 70 degrees when you're at home or awake (the summer guideline for those with central A/C is 78 degrees). Whether you choose to upgrade your thermostat or not, turn it back (or raise it in the summer) when you're away or asleep.

6. Wrapping your water heater in a "blanket" is an easy way to save about $15 a year. Lower your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees for more painless savings.

7. Sealing large air leaks in your home can save you a bundle. Try installing door sweeps to stop air from escaping from underneath your doors.


****Provided courtesy of Environmental journalist Lori Bongiorno product reviews with Yahoo! Green's users.