1.  Replace the filters in your heating system.

Also, vacuum or dust all vents and duct openings, then make sure nothing is blocking them. These simple actions will instantly improve the efficiency of your heating system, so it will require less energy to heat your house. (A large portion of the 7.5 tons of CO2 produced each year in the average U.S. household comes from heating.)

2.  Attend a free Button Up Vermont event.

You’ll learn about easy ways to weatherize your home, including windows. The drafts allowed by leaky windows can account for up to 25 percent of your home heating bill.

3.  Set your thermostat two degrees lower than you usually do. 

According to the PACE University Energy and Climate Center, this can reduce your heating-related CO2 emissions by 6 percent, or about 420 pounds of CO2 per year for the average home. Drop it even lower at night to save more. Also, if you currently heat with oil or gas, consider switching to a cold climate air source heat pump.

4.  Insulate your electrical outlets with pre-cut foam gaskets.

These are easy to find at the hardware store; be sure to follow package directions. Also, use foam sealant, caulk, or putty to fill cracks or gaps around the wall plates. (Remember: Always turn off the power before you work on an outlet!) Properly insulating your home could reduce heating and cooling costs by 40 percent, yet experts say around 90 percent of U.S. homes are under-insulated. That’s a lot of wasted energy!