By Madison Keiger

As colder weather approaches, you might find yourself writing out larger checks to your power company.

Here are 10 tips from Georgia Power you can use to prepare your house for chillier weather, while also keeping money in your pocket:

1. Keep your thermostat at 68 degrees.
2. When the sun is shining, open your curtains and shades: the sun will naturally warm your home. 
3. Do not cover air vents with furniture/rugs/curtains. Keeping them unobstructed will help your heating system run more efficiently.
4. Set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees.
5. Dressing warmly is not only for the outdoors: cozying up in a sweatshirt will keep you comfortable while also keeping your thermostat down.
6. Change your standard filters monthly or pleated filters at least once every three months.
7. Make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed (caulk/weather strips around the borders): cracks mean cold air leaking inside.
8. If you have a fireplace, keep the damper closed when not in use. This will prevent cold air from coming down the chimney.
9. Keep your refrigerator and freezer stocked: less empty space means less space that needs to be cooled.
10. Use smaller lamps so work can be done without lighting the whole room.

For more power saving tips and video tutorials for some of the things mentioned, you can visit Georgia Power.