Buy an energy-efficient refrigerator
Refrigerators are one of the biggest electricity hogs in our homes. Fortunately, refrigerator technology has improved over time. If your refrigerator was made before 1993, it could be using almost three times the electricity of new models. Replacing your fridge has a short payback -- possibly only 2 - 3 years, depending on the cost of a new refrigerator, the age of the old one, and the amount you pay for electricity. When buying a new refrigerator, look for the Energy Star label and buy a model that uses less than 600 kWh per year.