The quicker the cold finds its way into the Midwest, the harder homeowners will be trying to keep it out. With heating costs on the rise, homeowners should be on the lookout for tips on how to keep the cold out and the heat in this winter. Click the links below for how-to guides on the best ways to save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs per year.

 

Seal all air leaks

A huge chunk of your heating bill may be from small leaks around windows and doors.

 

Clean or Change Your Furnace Filter Often in the Winter Months

This is a quick and relatively inexpensive way make sure your furnace is operating at its fullest potential. Some suggest changing the filter every 30 days in the coldest months.

 

Lower Your Water-Heater’s Maximum Temperature

Do some research and turn a dial, that’s it.

 

Pay Attention to When You Open Your Blinds

Timing when you open and close your blinds on sunny days can help you trap in warmth.

 

Seal Off The Fireplace

While sitting next to a roaring fire on a cold winter night may sound ideal, it actually ends up making your house colder and your furnace work harder.

 

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Pre-set your thermostat to reflect your schedule of when you’re out of the house or asleep.

 

Get a Home Energy Audit

Get professional advice on how to save money this winter.

 

So now that your home is nice and toasty and operating at its most energy efficient, there’s just one more thing to consider. What are you doing to do with all that extra money?