[ritaillinois]

There is just the two of us in a 2400 sq. foot house. I shut off rooms we don't use and close the vents.
I've virtually stopped using our gas dryer which still uses electricity.
Recently I bought drapes for our livingroom and kitchen windows (which are quite large, but double pane) and the insulated, room darkening liners (found at Walmart for 24.00 a pair...we'll see how much they help).
I use the dishwasher only when it's full.
I no longer leave lights on all over the house.
When we are both gone for the day or part of the day, the thermostat goes down (winter) or off (summer). We installed a ceiling fan and can put off using the airconditioner a bit longer.