No list of energy saving tips would be complete without one of the easiest and most cost effective improvements you can make — adding a programmable thermostat.  For $35-$50, you can make a massive improvement in your bill.  

A programmable thermostat basically makes it possible for you to control the temperature of your home so that you are only heating (or cooling) your home when you actually need it.  Many people have predictable schedules and aren’t in their homes for certain hours of the day.  It may be as simple as setting the temperature very low at night during the winter while you are warm and cozy under your down comforter.  It could be as complicated as different settings for weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.  

Rather than provide my own step by step how-to, check out a blog I regularly follow - FrugalDad.com .  In this post , the FrugalDad gives you the instructions to install your own programmable thermostat and start saving cash!

Photo credit:  _China_