Alabama Power wishes you a wonderful holiday season. Here are some ways to conserve energy and stay comfortable during this special time of the year, and throughout the colder winter months:

Turn down that thermostat and take advantage of the sun – Set your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower during the day, and even cooler at night. On sunny days, open blinds to help warm your home.

Clean or change filters regularly – Make sure heating outlets and return air registers are free of obstructions such as furniture or draperies. Vents should be cleaned regularly with a vacuum or a broom. Filters should be inspected and replaced regularly.

Check insulation levels – Attic insulation is one of the most important areas to stop heat loss. The thickness or depth should be 10 to 12 inches, depending on the type of insulation. Floor insulation should be used in homes with a crawlspace or basement.

Stop drafts and air leaks – Check windows, crevices and doors for drafts and air leaks. Using weather-stripping and caulk is a cost-effective way to keep warm air from escaping during the winter (and cool air from escaping in the summer).

Wrap your electric water heater - Save energy by placing an insulating blanket around your electric water heater. These easy-to-install blankets are available at most home improvement or building supply stores.

Don’t let the warmth go up your chimney – Be sure to close the flue when the fireplace is not in use.

Be a fan of the fan – A ceiling fan, switched to reverse, can circulate warmer air trapped near the ceiling. A small fan can also help distribute warm air around the room.

Check your Christmas tree – Many people use real trees indoors. If you do, make sure you regularly check it for fresh, green needles. Trees that have dried out over several weeks are more likely to ignite if exposed to a spark or open flame compared to fresh, well-watered trees. Keep candles well away from your tree and from drapes and other flammable items. Never leave candles unattended.

Safety first with holiday lights – Only use UL-approved lights, indoors and out. Even if recently purchased, check lights before hanging them on your tree. Make sure there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections. When decorating outdoors, be sure to use lights designed for outdoor use. Keep electrical connections above ground and out of areas where water may collect. Be sure to install decorations away from power lines. Indoors or outdoors, be careful not to overload electrical outlets or extension cords.

Consider LED holiday lighting – LED (light-emmiting diode) lights are more expensive than traditional incandescent lights, but they pay for themselves through energy savings in the first year.

For more energy-saving and safety tips for the holidays – and for any season – please visit www.alabamapower.com.

Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), provides reliable, affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million people across the state.