Energy conservation is one way to hold the line on heating costs. There are many low-cost or no cost ways to reduce energy use.

Get your furnace checked.
Residential heating systems need regular tune-ups. Contact your local heating contractor to schedule a home-heating system inspection.

Change your furnace filter monthly.
Clean filters help your furnace run better and will save you money on your heating bill.

Turn down the heat.
Set thermostats between 65 and 70 degrees during the winter, at least 5 degrees lower when sleeping and at 58 degrees when away from home for more than a few hours. (Warmer temperatures are recommended for homes with infants, ill or elderly persons).

Invest in a programmable thermostat.
It can automatically lower and raise your home's temperature.

Consider a gas fireplace.

If you have a room that is hard to heat, consider purchasing a gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces burn more efficiently than wood-burning models and distribute heat more evenly.

Water Heating
Turn down the temperature. You can save more than 10% on your water-heating bill by turning down your water heater just ten degrees-from the standard 140 degrees to 130 degrees.

Drain your water heater annually. You'll extend your water heater's life and increase energy efficiency if you drain it annually to remove lime deposits and sediment.

Install flow-restricting showerheads. You can reduce hot water usage by up to 50 percent without affecting shower pressure.

Repair leaky faucets. A leak that fills a coffee cup in 10 minutes wastes 3,200 gallons of water a year.

Home Appliances
Use a gas range with electronic ignition. Gas ranges with electronic ignition systems will use 40% less energy than a standing pilot system.

Look for the blue flame. Be sure that all burners have a blue, cone-shaped flame. A yellow flame indicates clogged air inlets or burners that need adjustment. Contact our service department immediately if you don't see a blue flame.

Check the seal on your oven door. Gaps or tears in the seal will let heat escape and waste energy.

Cover your windows. Use drapes or shutters to reduce drafts and radiant heat loss. Open coverings on south facing windows during the day to let sunlight in.

Check your insulation. Find out if you have the recommended level of insulation in your attic and basement (or crawl space).

Consider storm or double-pane windows and doors. A less expensive alternative is plastic sheeting, which can be temporarily fastened over doors and windows to retain heat.