Tips to help lower your energy bill this fall and winter

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A family typically spends at least $2,200 a year on energy bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

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Here are tips to help lower your bill this fall and winter:

  • Bundle up on warm accessories: Wear warm socks and sweaters while inside, use extra blankets while sleeping and lounging, and add area rugs to cold floors.
  • Install blackout curtains: You can save up to 25 percent by swapping out regular curtains with blackout energy-efficient curtains.
  • Adjust the thermostat: Homeowners can save money when sleeping or not at home by turning the thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours.
  • Perform regular maintenance on your furnace: Keep your furnace and vents properly maintained and cleaned to reduce energy consumption.
  • Take shorter showers: It will reduce the expense of heating up water.
  • Don't let the water run while doing dishes or brushing your teeth: This can waste money, turn the water off between brushing and washing.
  • Turn down your water heater: About 14 to 25 percent of energy consumed is due to a running water heater, so lower the temperatures 10 to 20 degrees or turn the knob to "vacation move" to save energy while you're not home or using it.
  • Switch to LED lights: Use LED holiday lights to reduce the cost of decorating for the holiday season.
  • Consider eco-friendly options: Sustainable updates such as smart tech help cut costs.
  • Unplug to save on your electricity bill: Unplug all unused electrical devices.

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