Small Appliances

Some of the more expensive small appliances used are: vacuum cleaners at 15¢ per hour, hair dryers at 20¢ per hour, and irons at 10¢ per hour. But, since they're usually not on for long periods of time, they really don't add up to much. There are also small appliances that are on all day that you may wonder about, like clocks at 25¢ per month, answering machines at $1.10 per month and fax machines at $2.70 per month.

These costs are still insignificant when you look at the hours of operation.

Watch Those Gas Fireplace Logs

Gas fireplace logs can keep you cozy each night, but at 30¢ per hour, your gas costs can really take a jump if you use them every night. And, most of the heat goes up your chimney instead of into the room.

Pull The Plug Or Hit The "Off" Button

There's no need to leave television sets, computers, curling irons, electric skillets and irons on when you're not using them.

Play It Safe

Besides wasting energy, leaving electric appliances and equipment on needlessly will cause them to wear out faster. It may also be a significant safety hazard. So play it safe, and shut them off when you're through.