During the heating season, keep the draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home or office. During the cooling season, keep the window covering closed during the day to prevent heat gain.

Use a programmable thermostat to control the heating and cooling in your home or office.

Turn off the lights in rooms you're not using. In addition, install energy efficient lighting such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).

When shopping for new appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR® label.

Insulate your home or office. When insulating, consider factors such as your climate, building design, and budget when selecting the insulation R-value.

Weatherize your home or office. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows that leak air. Caulk and seal air leaks where plumbing, ducting, or electrical wiring penetrates through exterior walls, floors, ceilings, and soffits over cabinets.

Hire a professional to help you insulate and repair your ducts.

Insulate your electric water heater tank and pipes, but be careful not to cover the thermostat.

Lower the thermostat on your water heater; a setting of 115 degrees F provides comfortable hot water.

Repair leaky faucets promptly; a leaky faucet wastes gallons of water in a short period.

Conduct an energy audit to determine the largest savings potential.