Here are some free or really cheap energy-saving measures you can take now:

1. Turn off lights when not in the room. Every 1,000 kWh saved equals $100 on your utility bill (assuming 10 cents per kWh).

2. Program your computers, monitors and copiers to go into “sleep mode.” Better yet, unplug them. In the average home, 75 percent of electricity used to power electronics and appliances is consumed while the products are turned off.2 Switching a monitor to “sleep mode” on the weekends could save you $30 a year.

3. Turn down the heat at night. By turning the heat down 10-15 degrees while you’re asleep, you can save 10 percent or $100 per year on heating and cooling costs.

4. Get a programmable thermostat.

The cheapest one will run you about 25 bucks, but save you up to 33 percent of your heating and cooling costs1. Atmos Energy and Source Gas offer rebates on Energy Star thermostats.

5. Replace disposable furnace filters with a high-quality 10-year one. Although it may cost around $100, the cost of suggested monthly replacement of disposable filters, at about 15 bucks a pop, can add up. With proper cleaning, a permanent filter could save you almost $45 a year.

6. Replace your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents. They last for years, and save up to 65 percent in energy use.

Stats and figures from: American Institute of Architects; U.S. Department of Energy; and the National Geographic Green Guide.

– Anna Thomas