Fall will shortly be upon us.
The cool days and nights are perfect for enjoying outdoor activities before the winter weather sets in.
However, you may want to set aside some time to winterize your home.
Winterizing your home may not sound like fun, but it can help to reduce your energy bills.
Of course, saving money is always a good thing! Here are some simple, yet energy saving suggestions for winterizing your home.
The best part about these suggestions is that they aren't too expensive, nor are they very time consuming.
That means that you can complete these tasks during the evenings or on the weekends before attending that football game!

• Seal drafts.
  Cracks and holes can let cold air into your home as well as let warm air out.
  Of course, this all can waste precious energy and cause your heating bills to increase.
  You can use caulk to seal around your doors and windows or you can use draft stoppers.
  All of these products can be purchased at your local hardwood store or big box discount store.
  
• Get a check up.
  Fall is the perfect time to get a furnace check up.
  A heating professional can make sure that your furnace is operating at peak efficiency or recommend that it's time to get a newer model.
  In addition, a service technician can install a programmable thermostat to help save additional money on heating bills.
  In order to save even more money, consider keeping your home a few degrees cooler than you normally do.
  Even a few degrees can make a significant difference in your energy bills!
• Purchase energy saving products.
  When you are winterizing your home, you should purchase items that are energy efficient.
  When buying new appliances for your home, check for an energy star rating.
  These products save energy and also help to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.
  In some cases, you may even qualify for a tax credit by purchasing such products.
  
• Insulate your home! Insulating your home is another great way to save energy while winterizing your home.
  Insulating your pipes can keep them from freezing during cold weather.
  Such insulation can also help reduce the amount of hot water that you use.
  Insulating your attic and crawlspace will prevent cold air from seeping into your living space during the winter as well as keeping out the warm air in the summer.
  Make sure to purchase good quality insulation for the best results and install the insulation according to the directions.
  
• Clean Out Your Gutters.
  Keeping the gutters clean can help prevent water damage to your roof and siding.
  Since water damage can be very costly and difficult to repair, this will certainly save you money over time.
  If you dislike cleaning gutters, purchase covers that will allow the water to drain, but will keep out leaves, twigs, and other items that can clog up the gutters.
  

As you can see, preparing for winter really doesn't take that much time.
However, the small amount of time and effort spent on winterizing will reap you rewards for a very long time.