Time change is a good time to think about winter safety and comfort

Before going to bed Saturday, you’ll want to remember to “fall back” and set your clocks back one hour to adjust for the end of daylight saving time. The fall time change is also a good time to think about safety and comfort around your home for the coming winter. Mississippi Power recommends several easy and low-cost steps to help reduce your bill and use energy more wisely while keeping your family warm and safe.

Change the clocks – Change the batteries
Experts recommend changing the batteries in smoke detectors twice a year. Doing this job when the time changes is a simple way to make sure batteries are fresh and smoke detectors will work when you need them.

Replace light bulbs
Long, dark winter nights need light. Replacing light bulbs will be a snap since you’ll already have the ladder out to change the batteries in smoke detectors. Switching to high efficiency bulbs like compact fluorescent bulbs or LED bulbs will save energy and money. Though CFLs cost a little more, they use 75 percent less energy and last ten times as long as incandescent bulbs. CFL’s will pay for themselves in just nine months. See the savings potential at mississippipower.com.

Shine some light
No one wants to come home to a dark house. Consider adding outdoor lighting around your home to increase security and enhance the landscape. Inside the house, using timers on lamps will ensure the lights are on when you come home; no more fumbling to find the light switch.

Change the filters
Changing the air filters regularly keeps your heating system running more efficiently and the air cleaner.

Service the heating system
Have your heating system professionally serviced before the cold weather hits. An expert should inspect the furnace to make sure everything is in working order. Whether you use a fireplace to supplement your heating system or just to set the mood; now is a good time to have the chimney cleaned and inspected. If it’s time to replace your heating system, learn how a heat pump can save you money.

Upgrade insulation
Stop winter air from coming inside by adding insulation and weather stripping and sealing air leaks around vents and pipes. A home energy audit can help identify ways to save energy and money.

You can find year round energy saving tips at mississippipower.com.