Play it cool: Your winter heating bill is probably the farthest thing from your mind right now, but a quick installation job can save you money later. Most of us set our thermostats at a comfortable temperature and let it go at that. But that means you’re heating your home when you’re gone for the day or keeping toasty under Grandma’s quilt as you sleep.

Why heat an empty house? A programmable thermostat can turn off the heat (or air conditioning) when you don’t need it. The thermostats, which are available online and at building supply and hardware stores for as little as $30, allow for different temperatures to be set throughout the day.

Star power: The government’s EnergyStar Web site, www.energystar.gov, recommends programming the thermostat for 70 degrees when you get up, 62 degrees or less while you’re away at work, 70 degrees when you’re scheduled to be home for the evening and 62 or less while you’re in bed.

What you can save: While savings will differ depending on the type of heating source and temperature preferences, EnergyStar says the average household can save about $180 a year by using a programmable thermostat. The only thing it can’t do is resolve the argument between you and your sweetie about whether it’s too cold or too hot in here.

Herald staff

How do you save a buck?

For more tips or to share your money-saving ideas and comments go to Heraldnet.com/saveabuck, or e-mail features@heraldnet.com.