Home energy bills are expected to rise this winter, yet you can do a lot to keep costs down. And your electric utility company can help. It has free advice that can make your energy savings really add up.

Start by keeping the cold air outside. Seal up leaks around windows, doors, pipes or other openings in your home. Next, make sure your furnace or heat pump is working properly. Clean the air filter every month. Arrange your furniture and draperies so they don't block heating vents, radiators or hot-water baseboard units.