As far as home improvements go, this is a big bang for the buck.  A programmable thermostat can help save money on heating and cooling while costing as little as nothing.  By adjusting the temperature in your home while you sleep, or are away, you can help keep the total on your heating bill down.  Programmable thermostats come in a range of varieties from basic that have four levels to extravagant with weekday, plus Saturday and Sunday settings and remote controls or touch screens.  Plus many gas and power companies offer rebate incentives that can easily cover the entire purchase cost.  Installation is easy enough that average homeowners lie us can do it in a few minutes.  If you don’t have one yet, look into it right this season.