1 Shop and compare. In some cities, gas prices can vary by 20 percent from one side of town to the other.

2 Change the way you drive. Don't brake suddenly or accelerate quickly. Use cruise control, keep your tires properly inflated and unload the junk in your trunk.

3 Think small. SUVs may be fun, but maybe it's time to switch. Smaller cars and hybrids are more fuel-efficient.

4 Think smaller. Bikes—even walking—are even cheaper.

5 Install ceiling fans. By circulating air, they cut energy costs in winter (and summer, too).

6 Clean heaters. Clean or replace air filters regularly. Service your oil-burning heater, heat pump, gas furnace or radiator heater annually and your electric furnace every three years.

7 Load up. Be efficient; save energy and water by running washing machines, dryers and dishwashers only when you have a full load.

8 Chill. Keep the thermostat on your hot water heater at 120 degrees.

9 Make sure exterior doors and windows close tightly. Fix sagging doors and loose hinges. Renew your weather-stripping. Install storm windows for winter.

10 Lighten up. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They last longer and are more efficient. Install motion sensors or light timers.

11 Insulate water pipes in unheated areas to protect against freezing and to save energy.

12 Switch to appliances rated by Energy Star, the EPA-sponsored guide to energy-efficient products, services and technologies that use 10 to 50 percent less energy.