Heating homes in some parts of the country is an expensive proposition, regardless if you have gas or electric heat. But you can’t go without heat when temperatures hover near zero. You can likely lower your heating bill by taking some precautionary measures, some of which don’t cost anything to do.

Step 1: Adjust Your Thermostat

Turning your thermostat down will save you money, says the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. For every degree you lower your thermostat, you’ll save about 3% of your heating costs, which can add up to huge savings by the end of winter. The most energy-efficient temperature is a roasty 68 degrees, and you should lower your thermostat at night – you’ll be under blankets anyway – and when you go to work. Instead of turning your thermostat up when you come in from the cold, leave your jacket on for a few minutes and keep socks on. Let your body adjust to the temperature in your home, which will be higher than the temperature outside. If you are still cold, turn up your thermostat.

Step 2: Have Your Heating and Cooling Unit Maintained

Hiring a professional team to come and service your heating and cooling system will keep your system running smoothly. The less it has to work, the lower your bills. Have your electric or oil heater checked annually, and your gas heaters checked at leave every other year. The company you hire can likely tell you if your system is energy-efficient and recommend other ways you can use your system to help lower your heating costs. Dirty filters can also add to your heating bill, so keep your filters clean.

Step 3: Cover Your Windows

Your home can lose heat through windows, so check for drafts. If you find one, you can cover the window with plastic sheeting, available at most home improvement stores. Inexpensive and easy to put up, the plastic sheeting will help seal your windows and prevent heat from escaping. Take down the sheeting at the end of the season. Most kits come with enough sheeting to outfit the windows in a single-family home. Keeping curtains and blinds closed will also keep heat in and cold air out.

Step 4: Take Advantage of Things You Already Do

You likely create heat in several things you do around your home, like baking and showering. The heat from the stove can help warm your kitchen, and if you keep the bathroom door open when you shower, the steam can heat the area around your bathroom. These activities may not save a bundle, but you shouldn’t leave a heating possibility on the table. And keep your socks on. The Mayo Clinic says that if your feet are cold, your body will feel cold. Socks are an easy – and free – way to alleviate the need to turn up the heat.

William Henderson is a Boston-based writer who has been contributing to local and national newspapers and magazines for nearly 20 years. Pure Slush is publishing Henderson’s first book in 2013.