In Kansas, a local news station compiled a list of ways to cut up to $1,500 off your utility bills by making a few lifestyle adjustments and home improvements. To save on your utilities during these tough economic times, here are the tips and tricks you need to save.

Your fireplace keeps you warm, but it also can deplete your savings. If you shut off the pilot light when it’s not in use, you will save about $365.

Second, invest in compact fluorescent light bulbs to save about $200 a year. Stock up when there are deals to reduce the cost. Utilities often team up with hardware stores to offer cheap CFLs.

Third, add insulation to your home to slash another $300 off your bill. If your house was built before 1995 and hasn’t been remodeled, you only have 6 inches of insulation and you should have 16 inches. Buy blown cellulose and install it yourself.

Fourth, add caulk to seal air leaks around plumbing and holes behind your light switches. By doing that, you’ll save about $300 a year.

Fifth, don’t block air vents. By increasing heat flow, you can save about $100 a year.

Lastly, replace your old thermostat with a digital thermostat. You can save about $200 a year if you set it down while you are working or asleep. SimplyPlumbing.com sells a great variety of Digital Thermostats that are ideal.