February is all about showing a little extra love, and our pets deserve some too. A few small changes can make a cozy home for your pet and help lower your monthly bill. If you share your home with a snuggly cat or a playful pup, here are some simple, energy-smart ways to keep them comfortable.

• Start with a comfy corner. Pets gravitate toward warm, quiet spots. Create a cozy retreat using blankets, old sweaters or cushioned pet beds away from drafty windows and doors. When pets have a warm place to curl up, you can avoid turning up the thermostat to keep them comfortable. A little insulation goes a long way to make your pet feel safe and relaxed.
• Light their way efficiently. If your pet likes to roam at night, use LED nightlights instead of bright overhead lighting. LEDs use less energy and last longer, providing a soft glow. It’s a small switch that makes your home more efficient and pet friendly.
• Keep them active. Exercise is one of the best ways to keep pets warm – and it’s good for their health. Try different toys, vigorous play sessions and games like hiding treats around the house to encourage movement. When pets stay active, they warm up naturally, which means you rely less on your heating system to keep the whole home comfortable.

Showing your pet love doesn’t have to raise your energy bill. With these simple, practical habits, you can keep them happy, cozy and active while your home runs efficiently.

Explore more ways to save energy at home.

 Holiday gatherings bring plenty of cheer – and plenty of food. If you host family and friends, make sure your fridge and kitchen are ready for the festivities. Overstuffed refrigerators and inefficient cooking habits lead to wasted energy and higher bills. A few simple steps can help you save.

Start with the fridge.

• Leave room for air to circulate inside. When it’s packed too tight, the appliance works harder to keep everything cold, which uses more energy. A little space helps meals stay fresh and your fridge run efficiently.

• Before guests arrive, check that the door seals properly. Avoid opening it more often than you need.

Small habits can help you cook more efficiently too.

• Use the right size burner for your pots and pans. Keep lids on to trap heat and reduce cooking time.
• Consider using energy-smart appliances like slow cookers and pressure cookers. They use less energy than the oven and help keep the kitchen cooler.
• If you do bake or prepare dishes that require the oven, try batch cooking to make the most of a hot oven. Resist the urge to open the door while food cooks. Every peek lets heat escape and makes the oven work harder.

With a little planning, you can keep holiday meals delicious and your energy use in check.

Discover more ways to power your holiday for less.