Everyone wants to save money, and energy bills can get outrageously high in winter. This is especially true with the holidays just around the corner and the unique spending habits of this time of year.

1. LED Light Bulbs

• Making sure all the light bulbs in your home are energy-efficient models can help you save money. When shopping, look for the Energy Star logo.
• Energy Star is a partnership between the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency to let consumers know what products are the most energy efficient.
• Energy Star also tests other household appliances and it's a good thing to look out for when shopping.

2. Holiday Lights and Decorations

Everybody loves holiday lights as they are a time honored tradition. However, they can also be a money sink if you are using outdated lights. Modern holiday lights and other decorations can reduce a chunk of your electric bill.

3. Smart Power Strips

• Most people these days use power strips and have a variety of devices and chargers plugged in at all times. Older power strips always have electricity running through them and this can really add up over the years.
• Now, companies have started making smart power strips that can sense when things are not in use and thus don't provide them power. This is a moderately easy way to save as it just requires a trip to the hardware store.

4. Efficient Holiday Cooking

Holiday meals are another fun tradition that can increase your electric bill. For this it's simple advice like:

1. Checking that the oven is off when not in use
2. Not constantly opening the oven so it has to spend more effort to keep the temperature up
3. Not leaving the fridge open as you're trying to fit in all the leftovers

5. Programmable Thermostat

• One of the best ways to save as the weather gets colder is to invest in a programmable thermostat that allows you to set a colder temperature when most of the family is at work. If you don't already have a programmable thermostat, MassSave is offering rebates and assistance on the price.
• MassSave is a program in Massachusetts that is trying to make everyday homes more energy efficient. They also offer rebates on a variety of products such as Heat Pumps. Another factor is to make sure your window shades aren't drawn so more sunlight enters and naturally heats your home a bit.

6. Carpooling

When most people talk about energy savings, they think only about their electric bill. However, cutting down on gas usage can also do a lot for your wallet. Here are some ideas to help you save gas:

1. Ask your neighbor or friend to run to the grocery store with you so you only take one car
2. Try to run multiple errands when you run out for last minute ingredients
3. If you're making a short trip, grab a bigger coat and leave the heat off

7. Window Seals

• As we head deeper into winter, this may be something to look into for next year, but good window seals are vital to keeping your home warm. If there are ways for cold air to get into your home, then your heater has to use more energy to keep your home at the desired temperature.
• If you have one window that you know is a problem, you can always do it yourself with caulk. Another simple thing you can do is go and check to make sure all your windows are closed and locked.

8. Upgrade Your Heating System

• The biggest way you can save money in winter is upgrading your heating system to a more efficient one. Especially if yours hasn't been replaced in the last 15 years, which is the expected life of most heating systems.
• Right now is also an incredible time to be looking at a new heating system because of the new availability of Heat Pumps and the thousands of dollars in rebates that are given by the state of Massachusetts and the Federal Government.
• Upgrading your heating system can save you hundreds of dollars a year and decrease your home's risk of fire and other disasters. For more information on how to upgrade your heating system, call Modern Energy at (508) 449-0449.