Winter will be here before we know it and that means that many of us should start preparing for those utility bills to start rising.  If you have had enough of giving all of your money away to the power companies don’t fret, there are ways that you can save!  

If you are ready to start cutting down on your utility costs, here are 5 tips for cutting your power bill this Winter:

Have an audit done.  In many areas, you can call your power company and request and audit.  A specialist will come in and do an audit of your home and tell you where you can increase your energy savings.

Start early.  You may think that “Hey, it’s August, why am I worried about my power bill now.”  But there is good reason to start worrying now.  It is better to start now so that you can fend off receiving that high bill to begin with.  You may as well take it one step at a time without having to rush through.

Lower your thermostat.  Lowering your thermostat even by a degree or two can make a big difference in your heat bill.  Let’s face it, you really aren’t going to notice a 2 degree difference.

Install weather stripping.  Go through your home and install weather stripping around your windows and doors.  This will prevent cold air getting in and warm air getting out.

Dress in warmer clothing.  Consider wearing socks and a sweatshirt when you are at home.  You will keep yourself warmer without having to turn up the thermostat.

Install heavy drapes.  Install heavy drapes throughout the house in an effort to keep the cold air out.  I did this recently and have discovered that not only does this keep my house warm in the Winter, but it also has helped to keep my house cool in the Summer. It’s a win-win.

What are your favorite cost saving energy tips?