With the cost of gasoline and home heating oil on the rise, many families are feeling strapped and are seeking ways to cut corners. And, unlike an evening out, keeping your family warm is not an optional budget item. The solution doesn't mean ringing up credit card debt or working more hours. Following are ways to lower your electric bills:

1. Use a programmable thermostat so you're not constantly changing the temperature.
2. Try a space heater, which may add to the electric bill, but will offer a net savings on heating costs.
3. Place extra blankets on beds and drape them over couches.
4. Use an electric blanket on your bed and flannel sheets.
5. Pull curtains over windows at night.
6. Weatherstrip and caulk doors and windows.
7. Get a furnace tune-up every year to remove dirty filters.
8. Ensure your home is insulated properly. Contact your utility company for a free energy-efficiency audit.
9. Act like it's winter by dressing in layers inside instead of turning up the thermostat.
10. Set up a clothes rack in the basement instead of constantly using the dryer. This will save money and will add moisture to the air in the winter.
11. Lower the temperature on your electric hot water heater to 120 degrees.
12. Run the dishwasher only when it's full and let your dishes air dry.
13. Encourage your children to turn of lights and anything electrical when not in use.
14. Remove an extra refrigerator or freezer if you don't use it.
15. Contact your utility provider to see if cheaper rates are applied if running appliances at certain times.

Keep in mind that it saves money to turn off any lights not in use. When it comes to heat, it's more cost-effective to keep your thermostat set at a consistent temperature for four-hour time spans rather than changing it every time you feel cool or warm.