Saving energy isn’t just good for the environment. It’s also good for your finances. Energy can be expensive and using a lot of it can be a real financial strain when the bill comes. Your money and the environment – those are good enough reasons to want to save energy in your home, right? Here’s how.

Home heating and cooling are two big energy consumers. Replace furnace filters regularly and keep the furnace clean. A properly maintained furnace will work more efficiently and use less energy to heat the home. A furnace that has to fight against a lot of dust will have to work harder to circulate air and use more energy. Also, turn down the thermostat a degree or two. It’ll use less energy and, at only a degree or two, you might not even feel the difference.

Seal leaks or drafts in your home. Cool air can leak in during cold months and keep the heater going. Air can leak in (or out) around windows and door frames. Keep curtains closed or use sealants, caulk, or something to block or seal the drafts. You could also invest in some insulation to block whatever heat may be escaping through the walls and roof.

Not using it? Unplug it. As long as it’s plugged in, an electronic device draws energy whether it’s on and being used or not. Unplug things when you’re not using them or plug things into a power strip that can be turned off. Turns lights off when you’re not in the room.

Consider a supplemental energy source. A solar panel or two on the roof could pay for itself in the money is saves you from your regular energy supplier.

And shop around for a cheaper energy supplier. Using less energy will save you money and can help the environment, but energy that costs less already is even better.