Energy Costs

REDUCE YOUR WATER TEMPERATURE,
Hot-water heaters are typically set at 140 degrees (look for a temperature dial like your oven's), but 120 degrees is sufficient for killing bacteria everywhere but your dishwasher--and most modern dishwashers heat their own water anyway. You shave off 3 percent of your monthly bill for every five degrees you lower the temperature, says Hunt. According to the Energy Information Administration, the average monthly electric bill is $73, so you save around $9 a month.

CHECK YOUR THERMOSTAT.
For every degree you raise the temperature in summer and lower it in winter, you'll save 1 percent on your monthly bill. Keeping the house five degrees warmer or cooler can save around $4 a month.

PUT YOUR WATER HEATER ON A TIMER.
You can turn it off during the day and night when you're either away from home or sleeping. Get a timer at any home-improvement store and ask your electrician to install it. Using heated water for five hours instead of 24 can save you up to $20 a month.

REPLACE INCANDESCENT BULBS WITH FLUORESCENT ONES.
Fluorescent bulbs are a bit more expensive (about $6 to $7 each versus $1), but last up to seven years and cast a more flattering glow than they used to. Over its lifetime, a typical fluorescent bulb will save you over $50 in replacement and electricity costs.