Winter is almost here, and in Iowa it brings freezing cold temperatures and high energy bills.

But, according to the Jefferson County Extension office, there are a few easy ways for people to save money and energy this winter.

“People everywhere are feeling a crunch economically this year, and that’s getting harder,” said Scott Timm, community and economic development specialist at the Jefferson County extension office. “If there’s things you can do at little or no cost to save you money, you should definitely do them.”

Check the windows and doors is an easy way to keep cold air out of the house, Timm said.

Removing air conditioning units from the windows will also help prevent leaking air in the winter.

Installing a programmable thermostat, costing about $50, can save residents 10 percent on their monthly heating bill. Timm recommends setting the indoor temperature at 70 degrees when residents are at home and awake, and about 62 degrees when asleep or away.

“Just take time this weekend, walk around your house, tighten things up, do some winterization and save some money,” he said.

Getting the furnace checked and changing dirty air filters will cut costs. Also, check the water heater, making sure the tank is set under 130 degrees. If the water heater is more than 5 years old, Timm suggests wrapping it with a thermal blanket. This will help it lose less heat.

ISU extension offices have a Kill-a-Watt meter that residents can borrow to calculate how much old appliances are costing. A long-term goal could be to replace old appliances with energy-efficient ones, Timm said. Many of the energy-efficient appliances have rebates or tax credits available.

Timm also said residents should have an energy audit performed on their home this winter. A local utilities company will do a basic audit for free or a modest fee.

“This weekend and this week is a time to get around your house and do some work before it gets too cold,” Timm said. “The longer you wait, the more money you’re wasting.”

Pat Shaver can be reached at (641) 683-5360 or by e-mail at p.shaver@ottumwacourier.com.