Nearly half of the energy used in a typical U.S. home goes to heating and cooling it, making it the largest energy expense for most homes. There are some simple steps, such as sealing air leaks to keep cold air out, that can help you save on your energy use and energy bills:

1. Use caulk to seal gaps in the walls of your home or apartment. Wherever different building materials meet, or wiring comes out of a wall, there are gaps that may contribute to the loss of heat in your home.
2. Weather stripping is relatively easy to use and available at your local home improvement store. Stop drafts from coming in and heat from leaking out of your home through drafty doors and windows.
3. If you have older or leaky windows, consider temporary fixes, such as plastic film kits.
4. Open curtains to the sun to help warm a room with radiant energy. Close them at night and on gloomy days to keep heat in. 
5. Lower the temperature setting when you leave the home and at night when you go to sleep. A programmable or smart thermostat can automatically make these adjustments for you.  
6. Replace your furnace filter monthly to save energy and improve heat circulation.
7. Set the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees and if it is an older unit, install an insulating blanket to prevent heat loss.
8. If you have a fireplace, be sure to close the damper when it is not in use. This prevents heat from escaping and cold from entering through your chimney.