Electricity bills are largely tied to how much power you use. The less electricity you use, the lower your bill. But the opposite is also true. In December and January, many SPEC members used more electricity than normal to power their homes during cold snaps and throughout the holidays, resulting in higher bills.

To avoid higher-than-normal electricity costs SPEC encourages you to practice energy efficiency. Just a few simple modifications to your everyday energy habits can help you save a bundle on your electric bill. Check out these easy ways you can accomplish energy savings.

• Set your thermostat for efficiency. Heating and cooling make up almost half of your home’s energy expenses. If you want to lower your bill, this should be your primary focus. In the winter, keep the thermostat at 68 degrees or lower.  This is the optimal temperature for energy efficiency. If you get chilly, try grabbing an extra sweater or snuggling up with a blanket before you touch the thermostat. As it warms up, keep your air conditioner set to 78 degrees or higher to save money. When you can, turn the unit off so it stops using your power altogether.

• Seal air leaks. An energy saving temperature won’t be enough to save your energy dollars if your heat or AC is escaping from your home. Check for any cracks or gaps where air might be leaking out. The most common leak sites are around outlet plates, recessed lighting, baseboards, plumbing and the frames around you windows and doors. Seal these areas with caulk to eliminate energy waste.

• Turn down your water heater. Water heating is the second largest energy expense in your home. An easy way to cut back on your water heating costs is to turn down your hot water heater. Most are preset to a scalding 140 degrees, which is much hotter than you actually need. Turn it back to 120 degrees. This temperature is sufficient for your everyday needs and gives some relief to your electric expenses.

• Unplug unused electronics. On average, families waste $100 per year powering appliances and electronics that are turned “off”. In reality, these electronics are in standby mode and still draw some power. The easiest way to put this money back in your pocket is to unplug all of your devices, including cell phone chargers, when they aren’t in use.

• Use your ceiling fan. You probably already use a ceiling fan to help cool down in the summer. In fact, the device can help you feel up to 4 degrees cooler so you can turn up the thermostat without losing your level of comfort. But did you know it can also help in the winter? When you switch the direction of your fan from counterclockwise (summer) to clockwise (winter) the fan will push warm air from the ceiling down into your living space. Just be sure to keep it at the lowest setting for the best result.

• Install efficient lighting. Although LED and CFL bulbs are more expensive than incandescent light bulbs up front, they are a cheaper option in the long run. Efficient bulbs use up to 75 percent less energy and last up to 25 times longer. If you haven’t already switched out your light bulbs, it’s worth it to make the transition. Start by changing the bulbs in your most frequently used light fixtures. (For shopping tips, see our lighting guide.) And, of course, don’t forget to turn the lights off when you leave a room. 

• Sign up for SmartHub. As an SPEC member, you have access to a free tool called SmartHub to help you manage your electricity account. Through the tool you can monitor your electric expenses by day, week, month or year. You can even see how your usage trends with the weather. Plus it’s available on your computer, tablet or smartphone. Right now, SPEC is offering an extra incentive. Each month, the co-op will randomly award one SmartHub user with a $100 bill credit. You can sign up here: http://bit.ly/1zPZ42E