• Open windows, drapes, shades and blinds to use the natural sunlight to heat your home or office, especially on the west and south.  Close drapes and shades in the evening to prevent the heat from escaping.
  
  
• Close storm windows. 
  
  
• Use plastic window coverings to reduce drafts through the window seals.
  
  
• Caulk and seal leaky window and door frames.
  
  
• Use furnaces and appliances that are ENERGY STAR®qualified.
  
  
• Use compact fluorescent light bulbs; they are 75% more efficient and last up to seven years.
  
  
• Use a programmable thermostat and set the temperature lower when you are away from home and warmerjust before you return. 
  
  
• Check that no objects are blocking the heating vents, preventing heat flow.
  
  
• Clean or replace filters on central air units, furnaces and air handlers frequently, monthly during heating and cooling seasons.
  
  
• Close the damper in fireplaces when not in use.
  
  
• Close the doors and shut off registers in rooms not being used.
  
  
• Use cold water for doing laundry and washing dishes.
  
  
• Use the dishwasher only when it is fully loaded.
  
  
• Regularly clean the lint out of the dryer.

For more tips on staying warm during the colder months, please visit Focus on Energy’s winter energy saving tips fact sheet.