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With winter fast approaching, you may be dreading the increase in your energy bill as those furnaces start running. And in today’s society when everyone has multiple computers, phones, and other electronic devices running constantly, we use more power than ever. But there are some very simple and cheap ways that you can prepare your home for winter, improve your electricity usage, and keep your energy costs under control. We’ve compiled a list of 8 ways to save money on your energy bill.

Change Lightbulbs

Replace traditional lightbulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). CFLs are more efficient at producing light, so they use up to 75% less energy and save you money on energy costs.

Install a programmable thermostat.

Programmable thermostats are relatively inexpensive, but can save you about $180 a year. You can regulate your home’s temperature throughout the day, whether you’re at home or not. In the winter, you can keep the temperature slightly colder during the day when your family is at work or school and program it to heat up again right before you return home.

Insulation

Make sure you have adequate insulation in your attic, ceiling, walls, and floors. You will also want to check the caulking around your windows and make sure that your exterior doors close tightly and are properly caulked.

Check your electronics.

Turn off electronics, including lights, televisions and computers, when you’re not in the room. You can also plug electronics into a power strip and turn the power strip off, either at the source, or unplug it entirely, when you’re not using the products. Computers also have a power-saving mode that you can turn on when you’re not using it.

Buy EnergyStar products

ENERGY STAR is program created in cooperation between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy. Products with the ENERGY STAR label meet specific guidelines that make them more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. You can find EnergyStar appliances and heating and cooling products.

Inspect Your Furnace

Get your furnace inspected and any issues correctly fixed by a professional to make sure they’re running smoothly. You should also ensure that your ductwork is properly sealed.

Fireplace

Don’t use fireplaces for the express purpose of heating your home; warm air will escape through the chimney. Be sure the damper is closed when not in use.

Holiday Lighting

If you display holiday lights, use LED lights and put them on a timer so they turn off during the day and in the middle of the night.