Here is a useful, modern looking little gadget that will save you some serious money in heating/cooling for your home or apartment. It is called Nest, a thermostat that literally learns over time to become the most efficient, and money saving thermostat.

http://www.nest.com/living-with-nest/

The installation is very easy and they say if you can install a light fixture you can install Nest. It senses activity, temperature, humidity, and light. Over 6 days it will learn almost everything it needs to start saving you money. Blends into virtually any wall due to the chrome siding that reflects the color of any wall it is on. 

Some interesting features:

• Wi-Fi connection to keep an eye on the current weather conditions so it can understand how the outside temperature affectds your energey use
• Senses your approach and will automatically dim so it wont blind you at night.
• Three temperature sensors track your home's heating and cooling. A one-degree difference can reduce energy use up to 5%.
• Nest's activity sensors have a 150 degree wide-angle view so Nest knows when to set itself to Auto-Away.

Software updates are loaded automatically through Wi-Fi. you can also control Nest through the Web or a Mobile app on your smartphone.

At only $249 this smart thermostat will save you more than that in the first year alone. I recommend picking one up today. Never too late for an extra Christmas Gift!