Let's say you've already bought Energy Star appliances and are participating in your local utility's green energy programs. You've replaced your standard incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), and you turn off the lights every time you leave the room. Good! Good!

But you're still flummoxed by that enormous bill that hits you every month or so. How could your heating/cooling/electricity costs STILL be so high?

Well, here are 12 simple...and surprising...tips you may not have even considered. You'll be surprised how easy it is to preserve your HVAC units, save energy, and lower your bills.

1. Leave at least 90 percent of air vents open to balance air pressure.

2. Clean debris and vegetation from elements.

3. Inspect air ducts annually.

4. Replace air conditioner filters regularly.

5. Set your air conditioner to "Auto"—not "On."

6. Install a programmable thermostat.

7. Close windows, doors, pet doors and fireplace dampers when not in use.

8. Inspect basement and attic insulation often.

9. Make sure weatherstripping, caulking and gaskets are intact.

10. In the winter, set the thermostat to 68 degrees F or lower when you're at home and 65 degrees F when you're away.

11. In the summer, set the thermostat to 78 degrees F or higher when you're at home and 80-85 degrees F when you're away.

12. In the winter, set ceiling fans to blow upward at a low speed.

Hire a handyman to install that thermostat, weatherstrip, caulk...whatever you need to make your home airtight! And bring in a professional home inspector annually to ensure your home is up to snuff...the investment you make now will pay off in the long run!

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