Autumn is here. The days are getting shorter and the weather is turning colder. How much you save on your energy bills this winter will depend largely on what you do now. Here are steps you can take to help make your home more warm and cozy and energy efficient when winter weather comes.

Doors and windows

• Replace worn weather stripping around all doors
• Caulk around gaps in windows.
• Install storm doors if you have them.
• Consider replacing older windows with newer, more efficient models.

Insulation and air sealing

• Proper insulation is essential both for keeping your house warm and saving on winter heating costs. Contact a qualified insulation control to inspect your home to ensure that it's properly insulated for your climate zone.
• Check in your attic and basement for gaps around flue vents and joists, as well as exterior piping and wiring. Seal with insulation cutouts, as well as caulking or expandable foam.

Heating system

• Have your heating system checked by a qualified professional before cold weather arrives.
• Clean vents and other heating system components.
• Replace your furnace filter and continue to replace it regularly throughout the heating season.
• Install a programmable thermostat; it will save energy by automatically lowering temperatures at night and when you are away from home.
• If your heating system is older, upgrade to an ENERGY STAR®-certified heat pump for high-efficiency year-round comfort.

Chimney and fireplace

• Have the chimney and fireplace checked and cleaned by a professional.
• Repair or replace loose-fitting fireplace dampers; they will allow warm air to escape.
• Keep the damper closed whenever the fireplace is not in use.
• Install fireplace inserts, covers, glass doors or flue sealers to prevent heat loss through your chimney.

Outside your home

• Replace any missing or damaged roof shingles.
• Clean gutters and make sure that downspouts point away from the house.
• Make sure that flashing around chimney and vent pipes is sealed tight.
• Trim tree limbs that are touching or overhanging the house.

To optimize savings and comfort, hire a qualified professional to perform an energy audit of your home. Your auditor will suggest targeted cost-saving opportunities to make your home more energy efficient this winter and all year long.