How you can slash your utility bills and save

There are many ways to cut costs in your monthly billing cycle for expenses paid out on energy. Whether it's heat, light or technology, here are some things you need to know to help you avoid overspending month by month.

• Program your thermostats to lower when you're not in or you're sleeping, and higher when you're home.
• Improve the insulation in your home to increase your home's energy efficiency.
• Replace windows. New high-efficiency windows won't just reduce energy use, they'll control drafts and humidity and make your home more comfortable. Look for low-emittance (Low-E) coating, argon or gas fills between the layers of a window and the Energy Star symbol.
• There are government grants available to improve a house's energy efficiency. Request a copy of Eligibility Criteria for Grants by calling 1-800-387-2000 toll-free.

• Look for Energy Star appliances which will consume far lower amounts of your energy bill.
• Add weatherstripping to all doors and windows and caulk all cracks and leaks. Heating bills can be reduced by 25%.To weatherstrip a door, tack metal-backed door weatherstrips along the stops on the jamb. Then screw a bottom strip with a sweep onto the door. Trim both strips with a hacksaw and be sure each fits snugly.
• Use a high-efficiency furnace, and make sure it's sized for your home.

• Check out the options available in your province to get the best deal for you. You may find better long distance rates, also, and you can bundle your services (phone/TV/Internet) for a better deal.
• Find out the times of your call provider's cheap rates and make calls then.
• When you receive a better landline, cable or high-speed Internet offer from your supplier's competitor, call and ask your supplier to match the deal, threatening to switch. They will usually match the offer, even if it's for only six months.

Energy efficiency is a great way to protect the environment, while also saving money. Make positive changes in your home and you might be surprised by how much you'll save!