by Pat Merewether

Created on: November 14, 2009   Last Updated: November 24, 2009

The sound of the furnace kicking in on a cold winter day is comforting, but can also cause a bit of stress as we become more and more aware that this also means the energy bill is climbing as the temperatures are falling.

Here are some tips that will help you cut your energy costs this winter, which is good for the planet and your budget. Most of us know about checking for leaks around windows and doors and putting plastic over leaky panes, but there are a few more things you can do.

ELECTRICITY

Save money on your electric bill by replacing your standard light bulbs with new energy efficient LED bulbs. I'm not fond of the 'white' light, so I purchased a couple of rose and amber tinted shades to warm the glow.

Try to bake several items in your oven together so you'll only have to run the oven once for two to three meals. For instance bake a roast, potatoes/carrots and maybe a whole chicken and a squash together.

Use motion sensors on lights in places where you usually only spend a few minutes. Our freezer is in the basement and it takes me only seconds to run down and pluck something out. The motion sensor turns basement light on as I pass it at the top of the stairs, so the light is by the time I get down there and stays on only a few minutes. This way I'm less apt to leave the light on because my hands are full. If I need more time, I simply flip the switch and it will stay on longer. These are also great for powder rooms, where the kids are likely to run in and out in a few minutes but leave the light on. Motion sensor lights are excellent for closets.

Turn off or unplug your computer, printer and other electronics at night or on days you don't use them. They are on 'standby' so are on even when you're not using them.

Add child-proof plugs to unused electrical outlets as they keep the cold air from entering through the open holes.

Encourage your family to do their homework or other tasks in the kitchen or living room. This way you won't have as many lights and other electrical items running in a number of rooms.

HEATING FUEL

This may sound a little silly, but wear a knit hat around the house or to bed. A knit wool cap works great. Although it has been proven that we don't loose most of the heat in our body through our heads, a wool cap will keep you much warmer than a bare head. This will allow you to turn your thermostat down a couple of degrees and will save a significant amount of fuel over the winter. Wearing several layers of clothing, such as an undershirt,

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