Use less energy.

• Buy a new energy-efficient refrigerator and get rid of your old one. This can help you save more than $150 per year, as the refrigerator is one of the appliances that uses the most energy.
• Watch your air conditioning. Keeping the thermostat at 78°F will save you a lot of energy and money, particularly in hot weather.
• Keep your water heater's temperature on the warm setting -- 120°F. With each 10-degree decrease in the water temperature, you can save up to five percent in energy costs.
• Manage your energy usage better while you're out of town. Be sure to turn off lights, adjust your water pump and water heater, and raise the temperature slightly in your refrigerator to conserve energy.