It’s that time of year again. The beautiful summer weather has faded into the brisk fall climate. We all know what is coming next: winter.

If you have lived in Ohio for very long, you know our winters can be rough. The cold temperatures mixed with dampness and snow can make everything from commuting to staying warm very difficult. Some like winter, but for most of us, it’s not our favorite season. So anything we can do to increase our comfort during those chilly months becomes a priority.

Yet, with energy costs on the rise, it becomes expensive to stay comfortable in our homes during the colder months. However, there are some ways to stay comfortable yet keep costs down and make your home more energy-efficient.

Not all energy-saving tips cost a lot of money or take a lot of time to implement. There are plenty of inexpensive, quick ways to save money and stay warm.

For instance, closing vents and doors in unused rooms keeps the warm air where you want it. Changing your furnace filter as often as required will not only provide cleaner, better airflow but will help your furnace run more efficiently.

Make sure to check for air leaks in and around windows and seal them. Consider installing storm windows or applying shrink film to the outside of your windows. And check all outside doors to make sure weatherstripping is in place or adding it if you don’t have any. Weatherstripping can be purchased at any local home improvement store and applied with minimal effort.

Some tips require a little more effort and money but are equally beneficial. First, installing a storm door provides an extra barrier of protection between you and the elements. Keeping more warm air on the inside means less energy being consumed.

Second, have your HVAC system tuned by a professional. They will check to ensure all connections are tightened, parts are properly lubricated and coils are clean. A regular HVAC tuneup will keep your system in good shape, running at peak efficiency and extending its life.

Third, hiring a professional to clean HVAC vents of debris will improve airflow and air quality. And perhaps one of the most important and beneficial things you can do to stay warm and improve heating costs is adding insulation to your attic. You can do it yourself or hire a professional. The amount of insulation needed will depend on your home’s size and the climate in your region. There are different types of insulation to choose from; however, all will improve your heating / cooling costs and keep you more comfortable.

No matter your budget and ability, there are things that anyone can do to stay comfortable and save money and energy. Though some tips may require a little more planning, research and money, they are well worth the effort and will save you money and keep you warmer. So, don’t let winter catch you off guard.

Be prepared and stay warm this winter season.