Slashing unnecessary expenses on necessary items like utilities is on everyone’s mind.   Saving money may seem difficult when summer temperatures swell or winter chills have you cranking up the thermostat.  While we can’t eliminate our water bills or electric bills, there are lots of tips and tricks to keep the costs down. 13 Ways to Save Energy and Cut Utility Costs 1. Switch to LED bulbs.  We hear it all the time, and for good reason.  LED bulbs use less energy and last longer than regular incandescent bulbs.  They also create less heat, meaning your air conditioner bill goes down. 2. Buy blackout panels to hang behind your curtains.  Blackout…