Cut your home electric bill

A Consumer Reports survey found out that many people are missing out on energy-saving measures that can cut hundreds of dollars off their utility bills.

For example, nearly half of those surveyed don't make a habit of changing their thermostat overnight or when they leave the house.

Stacey Bergman, though, exemplifies the adage that sometimes you need to spend money to save money.

Bergman replaced old appliances with more energy-efficient models, and she bought a new hot water heater. She opted for the efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs.

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Tips to cut your electric bill

"Our bills have gone down," Bergman said.

Get more energy saving tips.

Consumer Reports found that people can save about $550 a year in energy costs by taking several steps.

"Roughly 50 percent of residential energy bills go towards heating and cooling," said Dan DiClerico, with Consumer Reports.

First, focus on eliminating any leaks around doors, windows and electrical outlets.

"You can check for air leaks with an incense stick," DiClerico said. "First, turn on an exhaust fan in your home. Then, light the stick, and hold it up to any openings. If smoke starts to blow horizontally, you've got a leak."

The insulation is the next place to check in a home.

Only 12 percent of homeowners surveyed by Consumer Reports had added or upgraded their insulation in the last three years.

"A good place to start is in the attic. Look for missing insulation where heat can escape, including above the attic hatch door," DiClerico said. Also, make sure the insulation is thick enough, he said.

How and when people wash laundry can add up to more energy savings.

Only 38 percent of people surveyed said they always wash their clothes in cold water. Washing in cold water, though, can save up to $60 a year.

On the positive side, the survey revealed that nearly 75 percent of people save by not running the washer until they have a full load.