<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">So far, temperatures in Southwest Louisiana haven’t dipped too low, but winter may still have its way here.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">The Entergy website states that heating and cooling costs comprise 60 percent of the monthly electric bill. To stay cozy and save energy, consider these tips. The first four are from a local family-owned building materials company spokesperson:</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody" style="font-weight: bold;">1. Check the insulation in the attic.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">If the attic is under-insulated, valuable heated air is escaping throughout the winter. Forty percent of home energy loss occurs through the attic. Adding insulation is a great way to keep heat in and cut down on utility costs.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Attic tents for attic stairways are also available and keep air from escaping into the attic.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody" style="font-weight: bold;">2. Keep doors sealed.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Make sure that all exterior doors seal properly when shut and do not allow heated air to escape.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Adding weather stripping and gasket seals are an inexpensive way to keep heat inside.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody" style="font-weight: bold;">3. Keep windows sealed.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Heat also escapes through windows that are not properly sealed.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">If possible, replace single pane windows with double- insulated windows, or purchase a storm window, which can help improve energy savings.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Check for cracks around the frame of double-paned windows. Window/door caulk can be used as a sealant.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody" style="font-weight: bold;">4.Insulate the water heater.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Water heater blankets are available for purchase, helping keep water hot and use less energy to do it during the winter when hot showers are most appreciated.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody" style="font-weight: bold;">5. Adjust the thermostat.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">The Entergy website notes that setting the themostat on 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter can lower utility costs by 10 percent.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody" style="font-weight: bold;">6. Use technology.</span> <span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Consider investing in a programmable thermostat which can be set to use less energy at night and when the home’s occupants are away.</span>

<span class="R~sep~ACopyBody">Some programmable thermostats actually “learn” temperatures the occupants like best and when, and adjust programs based on those behaviors. Some of these “smart” thermostats can be controlled by cell phones and other mobile devices.</span><p>(MGNonline)</p>