Wintertime is upon us, and with that comes generally higher utility bills. Here are some helpful tips to keep you from spending so much dough.

First and most obviously of all, turn your heater down. HomeLife.com says that “every degree above that you program your heater adds about ten percent to your heating costs.” That’s a lot in the long run, so work on keeping the number low and bundle up if necessary.

With this, focus on heating the rooms you want to heat the most. Close the heat vents in seldom-used rooms and close the door so the heater only works to keep your most-used rooms hot.

You can try to remember to turn off your heater when you’re leaving your place for the day, and especially when you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time. It makes no sense to pay to heat an area you won’t be utilizing.

Also, showers make a difference as well. Try cutting down your showers (which can be hard during cold winter days) and/or buying a water-efficient showerhead. Again, HomeLife.com said that “hot water accounds for around a third of the average household’s energy use.” Try to be smart with your water and it could save you some money.

Fixing up your place can make a difference in your energy bills. Make sure you seal up any holes or cracks in the walls or foundation that allows heat to escape. You can also cover our windows with plastic to keep the heat in and the cold out. If you want to get more serious about useful home improvement, put new siding or shingles on your place.

A final tip is to use your appliances wisely. Only wash your dishes in your dishwasher when it’s full. The same goes for washing (use cold water) and drying your clothes. Also, when you’re using your oven, keep the door open when you’re done and it’s cooling down. The hot air from the oven will circulate through your place and help out the heat.

Keep in mind that there are plenty of other ways to help your bill out, just look online or use common sense. Thinking smart now can both save you time and help out the environment in the long run. Keep it water-efficient, energy-efficient, whatever-efficient and you’ll be good.