Set your home's thermostat no higher than 68 degrees in the winter and no lower than 78 degrees in the summer.  Typically, 44% of your utility bill is for heating and cooling.

Use hot water sparingly. Water heating accounts for about 14% of your utility bill.  Limit showers and use low-flow showerheads and faucets.  Don't let hot water drip or run unnecessarily, make sure dishwashers are full, and do full loads of laundry. Turn down the thermostat on your water heater.  Unless health requirements dictate higher temperatures, a setting of 120° provides comfortable hot water for most uses.

Use a microwave oven whenever possible. Try not preheating your oven, and turn it off a few minutes shorter than suggested cooking time as the heat in the oven will finish the cooking process. NEVER use your stove or oven for heating your home.

Use kitchen, bath and other ventilation fans wisely.  These fans can pull out an entire houseful of warmed or cooled air in just one hour!

Make sure all unnecessary lights are off, particularly outdoor lighting during the day. The PUD offers compact fluorescent bulbs at cost for sale at PUD offices. These bulbs use much less energy and last longer than regular light bulbs.

Make sure your furnace is well maintained, and remember to clean and change air filters.  If you use a fireplace, make sure the damper is tightly closed when not in use. 

Check levels of insulation in attics, floors, walls and crawl spaces.  Contact your local contractor for advice on how to check your insulation levels. 

Check for holes or cracks around walls, windows, doors and outlets.  One of the quickest dollar-saving tasks you can do is caulk and weatherstrip seams, cracks and openings that can leak air into or out of your home.