Weatherproofing your home in the winter

As temperatures plummet and heating costs are projected to rise, keeping a warm home -- for less -- is a premium. Professional service technicians say clean furnace filters are key to circulating heat.

"Filters can get dirt and debris built up -- hair, pet hair -- things like that on it, which will, in turn, block air flow, which will lead to your furnace shutting down because it gets too hot," said Tom Willamowski of Great Lakes Heating, Air Conditioning, and Electric.

How often you replace furnace filters depends on the filter size you use. Willamowski says a one-inch filter should be changed monthly. A five-inch filter sometimes lasts a year. Prices range between a few dollars to $100 for a quality media filter.

He also recommends dusting off air ducts.

"Duct cleaning is good because it helps take care of dust and debris that builds up," Willamowski said.

Also requiring attention are whole-house humidifier drains. Over time, lime and calcium build up inside. Pouring common household cleaners, vinegar and bleach, down the drain helps keep lines clean.

"Vinegar will go down the drain and take care of calcium and lime buildup," he said. "Bleach will help with mildew buildup with water flowing through."

A clean humidifier, he says, makes homeowners more comfortable in the house by adding moisture to the air.

Annual heating system tune-ups address these issues, some of which require a professional eye. Right now, Willamowski is handling more calls related to furnace issues.

With heating costs expected to rise 10.5% this winter, spotting air drafts helps you keep the heat inside -- and cash, too. Draft "dodgers," plastic windows, or door film minimize the problem.

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Weatherproofing your home in the winter