Shelton, Iowa - Although December's single-digit lows are somewhat normal, the warm temperatures we experience make it look like a cold snap. When we think about cold weather—and because energy prices may be higher this winter—now may be a good time to review energy-saving (and money) tips.

MidAmerican Energy provides natural gas services to the city of Shelton and other locations in northwestern Iowa. Jeff Greenwood is their spokesperson. He told us how we can save heating costs. He gave us some tips on how to keep heating costs low this winter. He said they recommend lowering the thermostat setting, especially when you are sleeping or not at home-but if you can wear a sweater, you can also lower it when you are at home.

Greenwood said that if you are willing to spend a little money to save money, there is a way to make this easier-a programmable thermostat or a "smart" thermostat.

According to Greenwood, another thing you can do is open the curtains on sunny days, especially south-facing windows. As he said, it was "free heat from the sun." He said to make sure your heating is not blocked by furniture, carpets or curtains. Greenwood tells us that you can also check your doors and windows for airflow, and if they are too inefficient, they can be caulked or sealed or replaced. In addition, when you are not using the fireplace, please make sure to close the fireplace damper. If your fireplace does not have a tempered glass door, please check the tempered glass door.

According to Greenwood, insulation is another way to retain heat.

Find more information on midamericanenergy.com, including links to complete your own home energy assessment.

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