As winter approaches, Duke Energy is offering some energy savings solutions for Hoosiers.

“Duke Energy is here to help our customers as the weather gets chillier,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “We want them to know that there are a number of tools available through the company, as well as simple solutions to manage their energy use.”

Duke Energy customers can sign up for a free in-person or virtual home energy assessment. Through the Home Energy House Call program, energy specialists help customers find ways to save energy and money by being more efficient. Customers will also receive a free energy efficiency kit, a customized usage report, low-cost tips and expert recommendations to help them see energy savings.

Another way customers can save is through the Smart $aver® home improvement rebate programs. Insulating and sealing your home will help keep warm air in and cold air out to help manage energy and save money.

Better predict what you’ll spend on electricity by reviewing the Usage Alerts that arrive midway through a billing cycle. By having a smart meter and an email address on file, customers automatically are enrolled to receive a Usage Alert notification that shows how much electricity customers are using and how much it may cost in time to adjust. Customers can track energy usage down to the hour, day or week. The goal is to see when energy use is spiking and adjust habits that may be driving it up. Simply sign in to your online account or create one here.

In addition to programs, incentives and rates, customers can also use these low- to no-cost tips to save energy this season:

Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. The closer you match your thermostat to outdoor temps, the lower you can make your bill. Even a couple degrees makes it easier on your heating systems and your wallet.

Change your air filter and schedule regular maintenance for your heating systems. Maintaining your heating systems can help increase efficiency.

Leave drapes or blinds open during sunny winter days to allow the sun's rays to warm the house and close them at night to help insulate your home.

Seal cracks in windows, doors and vents with caulking and weatherstripping to save 10% to 20% in heating costs.

Operate ceiling fans in a clockwise direction in the winter, which pushes warm air back down into the room. (Most fans have a switch that allows you to reverse the motor.) While fans move air and make people more comfortable, they do not provide heat, so remember to turn the fan off when you leave the room.

Manage water heating. Set your water heater to 120 degrees or less. Water heating is typically the second biggest user of energy in your home.

Replace standard bulbs with LEDs. LEDs are more efficient than regular bulbs, while giving off the same amount of light. Replacing just six of your most frequently used bulbs with LEDs can save up to $480 over the lifetime of the bulbs.

Visit Duke Energy’s Winter Energy Savings webpage for more information: duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.