The cold weather is here to stay in Michiana, which means turning up the heat in your home.

But that doesn't mean you and your family doesn't have to spend a lot of money this winter!

Indiana-Michigan Power has released a few tips to help you save money this winter:

• Have your furnace and duct-work inspected annually. Loose, broken AC ductwork accounts for 15-35% of a home's energy loss.
• Change furnace filters each month.
• Caulk, seal and weatherstrip openings from your home to the outside.
• Increase your attic insulation if the joists are showing. Recommended level: R-38 or 10-16 inches blown.
• Repair and weatherstrip air leaks in the home. About 10-25% of energy used to cool homes escapes through air leaks.
• Unless it is equipped specifically for home heating, use your fireplace sparingly. Warm air escapes through the chimney. Close the damper when you're not using your fireplace.