With a few simple steps, you can make boost your home’s energy efficiency and bring down your heating costs.

• Lower your thermostat when you’re out for the day and when you go to bed. Every degree will save you 3% on your bill.

•  Turn down your water heater. Set it at 120 degrees and you most likely won’t notice the difference.

• Fix the leaks around doors and windows -- they’re all costing you money. Use caulk around window frames, door sweeps under exterior doors and weather stripping on movable joints.

• Insulate old water heaters and wrap water pipes that run through uninsulated areas.

• Check your ducts and fix any gaps with metal-backed tape.

• Consider buying a low-flow shower head – it will use less hot water and energy.

• Take care of your furnace. Replace air filters to boost efficiency and get your units cleaned annually.

• Let the sun shine through south-facing windows during the winter. Close the drapes when the sun goes down to retain the solar heat.

• Dust or vacuum radiator surfaces regularly. A build-up can prevent heat from circulating efficiently.

• Keep the chimney damper closed when not in use.