For those cringing at the sight of single-digit temperatures in the upcoming forecast - you are not alone. Instead of counting down to summer, start incorporating practices to stay comfortable during winter’s artic blast, which can possibly save money on your energy bill.

Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) encourages customers to utilize the simple tips below today to stay comfortable and safe this week and beyond.

Close curtains during the night. Closing window coverings at night can help keep unwanted cold air out. Bonus: utilize days the sun is out and open curtains for added warmth.

Don’t try to outsmart your thermostat. Setting your thermostat higher than you actually want won’t heat your home any faster. This will ultimately result in your furnace running longer than necessary.

Utilize heat from the fireplace. Lower your thermostat to 55 degrees when you have a fire going. If you don’t, all the warm air from the furnace will go right up the chimney, which wastes energy – and money.   

Keep vents clear of any blockages. Homes with a forced-air furnace should ensure heat registers are open in all rooms, even those commonly unused. If your home has electric baseboard heating, keep furniture and draperies away from the heaters.

Avoid using space heaters. Electric, kerosene and propane model units can be expensive to operate and very dangerous.   

For additional energy-saving tips, head to ElectricIdeas.com/Home or ElectricIdeas.com/Work to find products, rebates and discounts to help you save even more.

I&M strives to provide comfort and keep homes powered. Customers can access information about organizations in Indiana and Michigan assisting with local and federal assistance programs. Anyone can also call 211 or visit 211.org for information regarding utility, housing, healthcare and other types of assistance available.

Stay Informed. Stay Safe.

Indiana and Michigan are no strangers to snow, ice and wind. I&M encourages customers to use the Indiana Michigan Power app to monitor the status of any outages affecting your home or business. You can sign up for text and email alerts on the app or on our website. Use our outage map to check the status of an outage near your location.

For the latest updates, follow Indiana Michigan Power on Facebook and Instagram or on Twitter @IN_MI_Power.