Fall is in full swing and Winter will be here before you know it! Every little bit helps when trying to save money these days. There are ways to shave money off of your Alabama Power bill in the winter without sacrificing or doing anything drastic.

1. Use the Sun's Natural Heat to your Advantage
Open the blinds or curtains on your south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to heat your home naturally. Close them at night to reduce the chill from cold, drafty windows.

2. Keep Drafty Windows Covered
Avoid being exposed to the chill brought in through drafty windows by purchasing and applying a heavy-duty, transparent plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Install tight-fitting, insulating drapes, or shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.

3. Adjust your Thermostat
Remember to wear layers so that while you're home and awake, your heater's temperature stays as low as is comfortable. Turn your thermostat back up ten to fifteen degrees while you're asleep or away. This method alone can save you around ten percent on your heating bill. Programmable thermostats make it easier to set back your temperature at appropriate times.

4. Locate and Seal Leaks or Gaps
Seal air leaks around utility cut-throughs for plumbing pipes, gaps around chimneys. Seal gaps around recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.

5. Service and Maintain Your Heating Systems
Schedule regular service and maintenance appointments for your heating system. Find out what maintenance is required by you to keep your heating system operating efficiently. Replace your furnace filter once a month or as needed. Find out what maintenance is necessary to keep your furnace or boiler running correctly. Wood- and Pellet-Burning Heaters: Clean the flue vent regularly and clean the inside of the appliance with a wire brush periodically to ensure that your home is heated efficiently.

Make sure your home is running efficiently by scheduling an electrical inspection by John's Electric.