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Programmable thermostats are systems you can set to heat or cool your home based on when you are there, asleep or away.

Rather than paying to blast the AC all summer, or the heat all winter, use a programmable thermostat to keep your home comfortable while you are home. One concern some have is keeping the home comfortable for pets while you are away - be sure to program your thermostat for a temperature that is comfortable for your pets all day.

These handy little items will bring your home to the proper temperature an hour before you are planned to arrive home, so the house is the perfect temperature when you walk in the door.

Programmable thermostats cost between $30-65, however more advanced systems are available. Nest thermostat programs itself based on your living habits and is said to save up to 20% more than a standard programmable thermostat. 

If you are looking to learn more about how to save on your heating and cooling bill, visit energystar.gov. Some other helpful links include: 

• Optimize your Thermostat Settings
• 10 Tips for the Thermostat: Your Key to Savings
• How to set your thermostat to save energy and money during the winter
• Tips: Programmable Thermostats

OTHER SOURCES: energystar.gov, nest.com