As Bitter Cold Arrives, Minnesotans Hunker Down

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The cold weather is forcing people to make sure they are prepared for the even colder weather to come. The key is to stay comfortable all, while saving money.

For many, cold air and even colder wild chills are signs that winter is about to kick into high gear. While some say it's too cold to even get out of bed, others are embracing all that comes with it.

"I love the snow," Kaylee Sirovy said. "I love just how beautiful it looks -- snowy winters in Minnesota. It doesn't really feel like Minnesota without snow."

Lake of the Isles looks like a postcard with snow blowing about.

"This is not very cold," Kevin Edgar said.

Edgar says today is perfect to take a walk around the lake.

"There are no mosquitoes, there are no bugs in winter. It's great," he said.

But for others, cold temperatures means it is time to get the house ready to deal with Old Man Winter.

Xcel Energy has cost-saving advice, if you can handle it -- set your thermostat to 58 when you're away and between 65 and 70 when you're home.

Xcel Energy Vice President Laura McCarten says you can stay comfortable inside your home and save money by doing little things.

"Open the blinds during the day let the sunlight heat your home and then close them at night so you keep that warmth inside," she said. "Use your ceiling fan, but have them rotate the opposite direction because that will push the warm air down and help you keep you comfortable."

Changing the filter on your furnace also helps keep it running efficiently and it saves money. Changing the temperature on your water heater can also help.

"A lot of people have the water heater set a little bit higher than you need to," McCarten said. "You can turn it down and not notice a difference, but you'll save money."

Right now, Xcel Energy's cold weather rule is in effect. They will not turn off your heat for a late payment -- the company just asks you to call so they can work out a payment plan to get you caught up.