Here are 6 tips for keeping down the cost of keeping warm.

1) Run an energy check. Call your utility company and ask if it has time-of-day pricing. If so, you'll be guaranteed lower rates if you don't use your appliances during peak periods. For example, if you do your laundry after 8pm, when power usage is at its lowest.

$TIP: Be sure to talk to your utility company about how to monitor your electricity for two weeks to make sure time-of-day pricing will indeed save you money.

And, ask your company to give you a free energy checkup. Most will come to your house, do an inspection and recommend specific ways to reduce your bill, such as weather stripping doors and windows and patching leaks. You could save 7% to 25% per month.     

2) Read: "Energy Savers," available from the U.S. Dept of Energy (877-337-3463, http://www.energysavers.gov/). It's full of useful tips.

3) Reduce state taxes. A number of states are now giving residents tax credits for energy efficient home improvements. To find out if your state is one of them, check with the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy at: http://www.dsireusa.org/.

4) Use ceiling fans. They help circulate the hot air.

5) Buy energy-efficient appliances. Check with Energy Star (888-782-7937, http://www.energystar.gov/) for a list of retailers selling energy-efficient appliances, lighting fixtures, ACs, home office equipment, windows and electronics. You can also search by product. And, type in your ZIP code to find out if there are special rebates being offered in your city or town. 

6) Get help paying your heating bill. If you're struggling to pay your bills you may be among the thousands of people entitled for help from the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), run by the Administration for Children & Families (part of the US Department of Health & Human Services). You may be eligible if you or someone in your home is elderly, disabled or under six years old. In addition to help with paying heating costs, LIHEAP provides assistance with weatherizing homes and making energy-related home repairs.

For information on how to apply: visit www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/liheap or call the National Assistance Referral (NEAR) project at 866-674-6327.

- Nancy Dunnan