It's really sad to hear (seems like weekly) someone saying that they're considering foreclosure as a way out of their financial crisis. As in any struggling economy "focus on the positive". If you're doing okay but are looking for ways to cut your budget you might consider some "passive solar" ideas to decrease your utility costs.

What is "passive solar"? When you purchased your home, I doubt anyone suggested that you look at the orientation (how the home was constructed on the lot). This is huge when it comes to energy savings. North/South orientation has the most potential for heating and cooling your home. See more on http://www.energystar.org/ .

Passive solar are things you can do to either block the Arizona sun in the summer or provide sun in the winter to cool or warm the interior of your home. Some suggestions:
1. Consider a patio cover extension or roll down shades.
2. Plant a tree outside western exposure windows for natural shade.
3. SunScreens - huge cost saver.
4. Replace old windows with double glazed (better than low-e) windows.
5. Awnings over windows.
6. Insulate your garage door.
Other heating and cooling tips:
1. Change your air filter regularly.
2. Tune up your HVAC equipment every year.
3. Install a programmable thermostat.
4. Seal your heating and cooling ducts.
5. Consider Energy Star qualified equipment.