As realtors we get to meet many professionals such as inspectors, appraisers, builders, electricians, plumbers, landscapers... you get the picture. We're not by any means experts on any of the above, but we do learn a lot from them during the years. Since fall is fastly approaching, I thought I'd share with you a few tips on reducing your heating bill this fall and winter season.

I'm sure you've heard it before, but it's true: Inspecting insulation, sealing gaps and maximizing the heating and hot-water systems are all great tips that really will save money in the long run. According to the Department of Energy, the cost to heat an average home is approximately $1,400. Experts say you can save close to half of that if your home is winterized properly. To do it right, look at various areas where heat may escape or may not be used efficiently. Here are a few steps to get you started:

• Inspect your insulation: Since warm air rises, the most effective way to save on heating is to have adequate attic insulation. Look for your ceiling joists. If you can see them, you need more insulation.
• Plug the gaps outside: To keep cold air out, seal up all cracks on the exterior perimeter of the home, including areas around windows and outdoor faucets. Use standard caulking or Sidewinder Caulk that's appropriate for use in temperatures below 40 degrees. Inspect the exterior of your home and apply the caulk wherever you see cracks, gaps or holes.
• Stop leaks from inside: seal up cracks inside the home, including cracks around the windows and around electrical outlets on exterior walls that can create a tremendous leak of warm air. Use a standard caulking gun to apply caulk to areas where you can see a crack or feel a draft. If new windows aren't in your budget, use a window insulation kit such as the one available from Duck brand. The kit is easy to install and costs about $3 per window.
• Maximize your heating system: Have a professional inspect your heating system every year to ensure that it's operating properly.
• Keep your hot water Hot: On average, it takes about 14 percent of your overall utility bill to provide hot water. Savings add up when you wrap a whater-heater blanket around the water heater, insulate your water heater, insulate your water pipes and install a timer on all electric water heaters