Save money and stay warm this winter!

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Author: Stasiulewicz, Lisa

Lower your thermostat just two degrees and you could save an estimated $40 on your heating bills this winter. Most people won't feel the difference between 72 and 70 degrees. If everyone did this, the demand for natural gas would decrease by 7 percent, according to Matthew Palmer at Cambridge Energy Research Associates. That would save more natural gas than what was lost in Hurricane Katrina.

It automatically lowers the heat 10 to 15 percent when you're at work or asleep. Studies show that some of these devices can save homeowners as much as $100 a year.

Reducing the water temperature by ten degrees can decrease your energy costs by 3 to 5 percent. (A setting of 120 degrees is perfect for a steamy shower

Up to 25 percent of the energy used to heat and cool your home is lost through leaky windows. But replacing them can be expensive. You can save a little by trying cellular window shades, which have air pockets to help keep the heat in. Twill curtains with foam bonded onto the fabric or heavy, lined drapes are also a good option.

Figure out which five lighting fixtures you use the most and replace the bulbs with Energy Star compact fluorescent ones. You'll save as much as $60 a year.

TVs, VCRs, stereos, computers, cell phone chargers, and other devices that stay on when not in use account for about 4 percent of your electricity bill. Pull the plug and you'll save around $30 a year.

If you need to replace your furnace (or air conditioner) this year, look for products with the Energy Star label; you'll save as much as 20 percent on your bills.

If you're shopping for a new water heater, consider one of the new technologies. Water-waste-heat-recovery systems attach to your drain line and recycle energy from hot water heading out of your house. Tankless water heaters warm up cold water quickly as needed, so there's never any wasted energy. Either type of unit could cut 25 percent to 45 percent of your water-heating costs.

Deciduous trees planted on the south and west sides of your home will let the sun warm your house in the winter (after the leaves have fallen). The foliage will help keep your home cool in the summer. Three correctly placed trees can save you up to $250 a year.

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By Lisa Stasiulewicz