Old Man Winter has arrive with wind and colder temperatures...whether we want him here or not.

    Now that there is a nip in the air, let me offer a few tips to lower your heating bill this winter.

    * Turn down the thermostat. For every degree you lower the temperature, you save about 3% on your utility bill. Turn it down when you go to work and when you go to sleep, and you can save about 10%.

    * Use fans wisely. Turn off kitchen and bath fans as soon as they have done their jobs. If you have high ceilings, use the fan to circulate the warm air at ceiling level.

    * Keep the fireplace damper closed when not using the fireplace; make sure the fire is cold first.

    * Turn down the temperature on your water heater and wrap it in insulation.

    * Keep heating vents clear. Vents blocked by rugs or furniture prevent air from circulating.

    * Open south-facing window coverings during the day and close all coverings at night. (A personal recommendation for insulated matchstick blinds; it makes a noticeable difference in inside temperatures and window drafts.)

    * Block leaks around windows, doors and other drafty areas.

    * Check your heat ducts for leaks.

    * Buy a programmable thermostat.

    * Keep your furnace is tip-top shape. Have it cleaned and inspected every year and change the filters twice a year.

    And if you need help with your heating bill, contact the Adams County Assistance Office at 334-6241 to see if you qualify for LIHEAP, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.