Energy costs are predicted to rise anywhere from 50-75 percent this winter.  Learn what you can do to cut costs, manage expenses and conserve energy.

Transportation

• Compare gas costs at the pump and use regular grade.
• Don't drive completely out of your way to save a couple of cents per gallon.  Traveling there can cost you more than what you'll save.  You can view Twin Cities' gas prices online at: www.twincitiesgasprices.com.

  Please note: Gas prices can change at any time and online price information is not guaranteed.

• Keep regular maintenance including oil changes, tires properly inflated (check user's manual), engine tune-ups.
• Don't speed.  The faster the vehicle travels; the more gas it uses.   Allow yourself ample time to reach your destination.  Being late increases your stress level.
• Avoid sudden stops and starts.
• Try public transportation or bicycling.  Visit United Way 2-1-1's www.thebeehive.org for bus/light rail and special transportation services schedules.
• Consider carpool/rideshare.  Don't know anyone to carpool with?  Many Websites offer carpool/rideshare matching, such as www.erideshare.com.  Check with your Human Resources department about starting a rideshare at your company.
• Consolidate errands (and trips) into one trip.
• If you own more than one vehicle, use the one that is more fuel efficient.
• Lighten your load.  Empty your trunk, passenger seat, backseat, etc.  Don't lug around unnecessary weight.
• If you must purchase a new(er) car, research your options first.  You can view vehicles rated by fuel efficiency at: www.fueleconomy.gov. Keep in mind miles per gallon is just part of the picture. Other factors affecting fuel efficiency, such as vehicle weight, should also be considered.

Heating

• Turning the thermostat down one degree can save up to 3 percent on heating bills.   Turning it down 5 degrees for 4 hours a day can save 10 percent.  That savings can add up to $250-$550/year.
• Keep fireplace flue ("damper") closed when not in use.
• Use kitchen and bath exhaust fans sparingly.
• Weatherize and insulate your home by installing insulation in the attic and walls as needed.
• Seal and insulate heating ducts and seal cracks in walls and windows.
• Keep furnace filter and vents clean.
• Have your furnace regularly maintained by a professional.

Plumbing/Water Heating

• Wrap your hot water heater with insulation.  Doing so could save an additional $75-$150/year.
• Lower the water heater temperature to 120 degrees F.
• Insulate hot water pipes.
• Limit hot water usage.
• Wash your clothes in cold water and only do full loads.
• Turn the water heater thermostat down when you are away for several days or more.  Many new models have a thermostat with a "vacation" setting.
• Take a short shower instead of a bath.
• Air dry dishes that have been cycled through the dishwasher.
• Scrape your dishes instead of rinsing.

Lighting/Electrical

• Turn off lights when you leave the room.
• Install dimmers and motion sensors where possible.
• Use 3-way bulbs to increase light and reduce energy.
• Install motion detector lights for outdoor lighting.
• Install compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs where you can.
• Turn off computers and monitors when not in use.
• Plug home electronics (TVs, DVD players) into power strips/surge protectors.   Turn off power strip when devices are not being used.  Even in stand-by mode, TVs still use electricity.

Sources: cbsnews.com, Xcel Energy, twincitiesgasprices, erideshare, U.S Dept. of Energy

Resources: United Way 2-1-1™ is a free and confidential, 24-hour information/referral line that can connect you to over 40,000 community programs and resources.  Just dial 2-1-1 or 651-291-0211.