A replay of the mid-70s energy crisis has been averted for now, but your heating bills are still likely to be 20 to 30 percent more than they were two years ago. Perhaps more alarming, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, as much as 50 percent of your overall fuel costs are probably going to waste. Hot-water heaters cranked too high, air conditioners running on overdrive, and light bulbs that produce more heat than light — all consume precious energy and money. Here are some easy ways to make your home more fuel-efficient.

Electric Lights

Reconsider those halogen torcheres. Yes, they're bright and inexpensive, but they're also energy guzzlers (and fire hazards). For every 10 watts of energy they consume, they produce a mere one watt of visible light and nine watts of pure heat. Look for more economical alternatives at www.energyguide.com.

Use compact fluorescent bulbs. These bulbs are four times more energy-efficient than everyday incandescents. Earlier versions flickered or produced a cold light, but the newest ones, such as ParaLite compact fluorescent full-spectrum bulbs, throw off pleasant, natural white light. According to the Department of Energy, replacing a third of the incandescent bulbs in high-use areas in the average home could cut lighting costs by more than half. ParaLite bulbs come in three sizes and cost $17 each, and the company claims they last 10 times longer than standard lightbulbs. The initial outlay is higher, but after 10,000 hours of use, a ParaLite bulb is about $35 less expensive than a regular incandescent.

Install dimmers. If you're wedded to incandescents, then at least use dimmers, which don't work with compact fluorescents. Solid-state dimmers and three-way switches let you regulate lighting intensity and save money. Dimming lights to the lowest setting can cut energy use by as much as 80 percent. Dimmers are easy to install and cost from $9 to $50.