Even though three quarters of younger American consumers have installed at least one upgrade to create energy-efficient homes, many more are interested in finding additional ways to promote energy efficiency to save money.

According to a recent survey by Whirlpool, 78 percent of consumers are interested in regular energy audits that would allow them to monitor the energy use in their home. But, of these consumers, about one quarter do not know how much energy is used in running their appliances.

Although only about 15 percent of consumers go out of their way to purchase green products, 36 percent purchase energy-efficient products when they are readily available. But, consumers appear to be embracing more long-term improvements through energy-efficient appliances and CFL bulbs – 65 percent of consumers claimed to have used both regularly.

In a press release, Whirlpool suggests basic ways for consumers to save with their appliances, even when they are not energy efficient. Homeowners should regularly clean the lint traps of their dryers and try to run them in the evening, when fewer people use them. Efficient cleaning of dishes can be achieved by scraping instead of rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, which can save homeowners about 20 gallons of water per dishwasher use.

When cooking, homeowners should use pots and pans that fit burners, as burners that are too large could be wasting upwards of $18 per year in energy costs. Homeowners should also try to avoid opening oven doors when cooking, as lost heat will have to be made up for by keeping the oven on for longer.

A home inspection provided by a qualified home inspection company in the Washington, D.C. area could unveil simple solutions for homeowners who want to realize the cost savings of improved energy efficiency.