We all have our favorite season. Some people love crisp, cool weather and bundling up under a favorite blanket, while others prefer the warm temperatures summer brings and all the fun outdoor activities that go with it. But there’s one thing we can all agree on: high winter bills are never fun. Union Power is here to help you find ways to manage your home energy use and keep winter bills in check. Here are five tips to help increase your home’s energy efficiency this winter:

1Mind the thermostat. The thermostat is the easiest way to manage your home energy use. We recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees (or lower) when you are home. When you’re sleeping or away for an extended period of time, try setting it between 58 and 62 degrees; there’s no need to heat your home when you’re away or sleeping and less active.

2Button up your home. The Department of Energy estimates that air leaks account for 24% to 40% of the energy used for heating and cooling a home. Caulking and weather-stripping around windows and doors is another simple, cost-effective way to increase comfort and save energy. If you feel drafts near a window or door, they likely need to be sealed.

3Use window coverings wisely. Open blinds, drapes, or other window coverings during the day to allow natural sunlight to warm your home. Close them at night to keep the cold, drafty air out. If you feel the cold air around windows, consider hanging curtains or drapes in a thicker material; heavier window coverings can significantly block cold outdoor air.

4Consider your approach to appliance use. When combined, appliances and electronics account for a significant chunk of our home energy use. For example, wash only full loads when using a dishwasher or washing machine. Look for electronic devices that consume energy even when they’re not in use, like phone chargers or game consoles. Every little bit helps, so unplug them to save energy.

5Think outside the box. If you’re still feeling chilly at home, think of other ways to warm up—beyond dialing up the thermostat. Add layers of clothing, wear thick socks and bundle up under blankets. You can even add layers to your home! If you have hard-surface flooring, consider purchasing an area rug to block cold air that leaks through the floor.

Winter months often bring some of the highest energy bills of the year. However, by being proactive about saving energy, you can increase the comfort of your home and reduce monthly bills.