Save energy, save money: choosing efficient products over energy hogs can save you thousands.(ENERGY SAVINGS)

THE AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD will spend $6,400 on utility bills and at the gas pump this year. That's $1,700 more than just two years ago, according to the Alliance to Save Energy, a nonprofit coalition of consumer, business, government, and environmental groups. No wonder almost three-quarters of Americans are very concerned about gasoline prices, and 51 percent about electric rates, according to a recent poll by the Consumer Reports National Research Center.

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But you're far from powerless. Some smart choices can help you save roughly $2,000. As a general rule, energy-efficient options cost more up front, but you'll often recoup the dollars in lower utility bills over the product's lifetime. (That's not always the case, as our report on tankless water heaters details.) The figures on the following pages are based on national average energy and water costs using typical examples from our tests and estimates provided by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, a nonprofit group based in Washington, D.C., that promotes energy efficiency.

Thinking of replacing appliances? Start with the oldest, least-efficient units. Don't wait for trouble to begin your research; it's difficult to make a reasoned decision when you're faced with a broken furnace on a cold night. Even if you aren't in the market for a new washer or water heater, check out "25 Simple Ways to Save." Some of the tips take just a minute.

RELATED ARTICLE: Washers

Potential savings: $129

Front-loaders use less energy and water, are usually gentler on clothes, and have faster spin speeds that wring more water out of laundry than regular top-loaders do. That means items spend less time in the dryer, saving energy there too. But manufacturers have improved top-loader efficiency with better motors, pumps, and load-sensing technology.