The U.S. average cost per gallon of gasoline is at an all-time high. Increased energy costs are taking a toll on the nation, not only at the pump but also in homes. Even natural gas, long seen as the cheap alternative to petroleum products, is creeping toward $11 per thousand cubic feet.

The average American household spends $1,400 a year on energy bills, according to the Alliance to Save Energy. What many households don't realize is that they are paying more than they need to, and by making a few basic home improvements they can bring down the cost of their bills every month.

Better Business Bureau offers the following home improvement advice to help reduce energy costs:

Look toward the windows: While replacing old windows with more energyefficient options requires an upfront investment, homeowners will reap the benefits of this improvement for years to come. Some energyefficient windows are designed for warmer climates with coatings that prevent heat absorption. Homeowners in cooler climates should consider installing storm windows which can reduce heat loss through windows by 25-50 percent.

Stop the leaks: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are many culprits for air leaks around the house that contribute to inflated heating and cooling bills: 31 percent of air is leaked through floors, walls and ceilings; 15 percent from ductwork; 14 percent from the fireplace; 13 percent from plumbing penetrations; and 11 percent from doors. In fact, only 20 percent of homes built before 1980 are well-insulated. Applying weather stripping to windows and doors is an easy do-it-yourself project for most homeowners. For a more comprehensive attack on air leaks in the house, homeowners can also call in a professional.

Out with the old, in with the green: Appliances account for 20 percent of homeowners' energy bills. When shopping for new appliances, heaters or air conditioners, BBB advises consumers to look for the Energy Star logo- the federal government's label for energy efficiency. While such purchases can be initially expensive, a new energy-efficient air conditioner, for example, could save up to 50 percent on the utility bill for cooling.

Money does grow on trees: By planting tress and shrubs homeowners can create shade in the summer and windbreaks in the winter. Not only do they add aesthetic value, but carefully positioned trees can save up to 25 percent of the energy a typical household uses for cooling. Trees and shrubs can also be planted near an air conditioning unit to conserve energy. A shaded air conditioner will use as much as 10 percent less energy.

Add insulation: Even though winter seems like a long way away, now is the time to consider improvements that will pay off when the temperature drops. The Department of Energy recommends 15.5 inches of fiberglass blanket insulation or about 18 inches of blown insulation for attics.

For more advice on home energy efficiency and other home improvement project issues, visit www.bbb.org.