It’s getting cold outside.  And when temperatures go down, energy usage often goes up, and so can your energy bills.

Fortunately, by making a few small adjustments, you can keep your home cozy and warm, manage your usage -- and save money. Trying one or more of these energy-saving tips can really pay off. 

• Soak up the sun: Open curtains on your south-facing windows during the day and let the sunlight heat your home. Then, close them at night to reduce the incoming cold from any drafty windows.
• Cover drafty windows: Install insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty to prevent cold air from seeping in around the seals.
• Adjust the temperature: On average, for every $100 you spend, you can save $10 on your energy bill when you set your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day.
• Find and seal leaks: Seal up any areas where air is coming in. More often than not, these leaky areas can be found around pipes that connect to the outside, chimneys, recessed lights in insulated ceilings and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. We also recommend using caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.
• Maintain your heating system: Replace your furnace filter once a month or as needed. Have your furnace serviced once a year to help keep your system operating efficiently.
• Let hot air flow: Always keep clutter away from registers, heaters and radiators.
• Keep cold air outside: Place a fabric seal at the bottom of doorways and windows.
• Expert tip: In a pinch, roll up a towel and place that under your doorway.