Five ways to fight the winter chill

Use these tips to help manage your energy use and keep winter bills in check:

• Keep your thermostat at 68 degrees or as low as you can comfortably manage.
• Caulk and weatherstrip around all windows and doors to prevent heat loss.
• Open blinds, drapes or other window coverings during the day to allow natural sunlight to help warm your home.
• Have your HVAC system serviced by a professional at least once a year to maintain its performance.
• Invest in a programmable thermostat. These can help you save money by automatically adjusting the temperature of your home during certain times, like when you are away during the day or asleep at night. That way your heat runs when you need it to, keeping you cozy!