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Here are some suggestions to ensure that your home is energy efficient and ready for the colder winter weather.

Test your homes energy efficiency.  You can perform a simple audit of your home’s energy use by following the guidelines at EnergyStar.gov. You can also have PG&E or a home inspector evaluate the home.

Turn down the heat.   Save money on your heating billsby setting your thermostat to 55 degrees when you are away from home for more than 4 hours.  Alter the setting manually, or for $80-$120, purchase a programmable thermostat for your heater.

Avoid drafts.  Plug air leaks with caulk or weather stripping to limit heat loss in your home.  Check for leaks by holding a lit candle near vents, doors, window frams and mail slots.  If the flame changes direction, there’s a leak.

Water works.  To save money, set your hot water heater heater at 120 degrees.  Electric and gas units can be covered with an insulating jacket for about $20.  The isulation can help cut heat losses by up to 45 percent.

Related articles

• Energy efficiency tips for landlords (confused.com)
• Easy, Low-Cost Ways To Save More Energy Around The House (connectyourhome.com)
• Reducing Electricity Use in Your Home (furniturehomedesign.com)

Insulating your home is your best protection against high heating and cooling bills.  It’s also the best way to keep your home comfortable in very season.

Start by adding insulation to any unfinished attics and crawl spaces.  Then consider insulating the ceilings and walls between your living space and an unheated basement or garage.

Finally, don’t forget that windows and doors can be some of your home’s biggest energy wasters.   Make sure the weather-stripping is in good condition at all times.  Install storm windows and doors to help keep your home draft-free.

With these quick measures, you can increase your energy-efficiency and keep your home comfortable and climate-controlled for less.