According to the U.S. Department of Energy, more than half of the energy typically used in a home is for heating and cooling.

But there are some simple and relatively inexpensive steps you can take to trim your summer electric bills.

*Change your air filter regularly
*Install a programmable thermostat
*Use compact fluorescent light bulbs
*Close the curtains
*Invest in weather stripping and caulk to seal the gaps
*Insulate your hot water heater

Can you make energy saving improvements for less than $200? Here’s what we bought:

*Programmable thermostat: $60
*Three air filters: $12
*Water-saving showerhead: $15
*Hot water heater blanket $20
*Weather stripping $20
*Caulk and caulk gun $7

Check out these Web sites for more energy-saving tips:

Consumer Tips

Energy-Saving Tips

Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings