Some more tips

Turn Down the Thermostat. Lowering you thermostat by just one degree can reduce costs by about 4 percent. Using a ceiling fan year-round also can help with air conditioning and heating energy consumption.

Earth-Friendly Decks. When planning for a new deck, look for wood that has been harvested using sustainable methods. By selecting a sustainable material, you help the environment and preserve endangered rainforests that supply tropical hardwood, a common source of decking material.