Pets are often considered part of the family. That’s why during the winter months, it’s important to make sure the whole family, including our four-legged members, is cozy—without taking a big “bite” out of our budget.

Here are a few simple ways you can make your home more comfortable this holiday season, which can ultimately help you save on energy bills:

1 Replace the HVAC filter at the onset of the cold weather season for better air quality and to help the unit operate more efficiently. You can also keep your home cozier by caulking and weather-stripping windows and doors. If your home is particularly chilly, you can tape or affix heavy, clear plastic to the inside of your window frames to create an additional barrier against the cold. Ensure that the plastic is tightly sealed to the frame to help reduce infiltration.

2 Set your thermostat at 68 degrees, a “purr-fect” temperature for people and pets. This is especially important for smaller, short hair and senior dogs­—not just for warmth but for their general health. Puppies, kittens and older pets with arthritis or other ailments may have a harder time controlling their body heat and need the additional warmth when it’s chilly out.

3 Eliminate cold air brought in by drafts. If your pet’s bed is near a window or door that feels drafty, tightly roll up a towel and place it near the bottom of the door or window to prevent cold air from entering. Cutting down on cold drafts helps everyone feel more comfortable during the winter months.

4 Elevate pet beds and use blankets. If possible, elevate your pet’s bed, so it’s not placed directly on a cold floor. An old chair or sofa cushion works well. If you don’t use a dog bed, take some old blankets and create a donut shape on the cushion so the dog can snuggle and “nest” within the blanket. You can do the same for cats but on a smaller scale. Blankets enable pets to nestle into them, even when they aren’t tired, and provide a comfortable place for dogs and cats to curl up.

5 Adjust your blinds and curtains. Open window coverings during the day to allow sunlight to warm your home, and close them at night for an added layer of insulation.

Check out our PeeDeePower app or visit our website at pdemc.com for additional energy-saving tips.