Heating costs continue to rise and countless homeowners will again feel sticker shock when winter is in full swing. Let's face it, if you live in a colder climate you need heat to make it through till next summer and there's not much you can do about that fact. However, you probably do not need to be paying as much as you do if you do a little planning and devote a weekend to some simple projects. 

We've all heard that installing a new heating system is a sure way to save money on heating bills. While newer systems are more efficient they are also expensive and so the break-even point for when you see savings can sometimes be years away. If you absolutely need a new heating system then you should get the most efficient one you can but with money tight many people simply cannot afford a new system. There are also a number of home improvement projects, professional energy audit programs and other investments you can make that will reduce energy consumption but may come at a big price tag

There's always steps you can take to save money on heating bills and we have tried to gather some of the top ways you can save without spending a fortune.

DIY Home energy audit
Lots of company's will come in and do a professional home energy audit for you but they can be expensive. Start your 'money-saving' project off by doing your own energy audit. Gather your recent heating and utility bills for analysis and the head over to EnergySavers.Gov and you'll be surprised what you can learn all on your own. After you've figured out your energy consumption, start making energy-saving improvements.

Seal heating and cooling ducts
Ducts that move air to and from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump can waste energy. Sealing these ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent. Start with the attic, basement, or garage.

Fill in any cracks to the outside
You would be surprised at how much heat is lost through cracks that you may think are insignificant. A tube of caulk or silicone will only run you a few dollars and it’s an easy project. Find and fill any cracks in doors, windows, chimneys, basement floors and walls.

Install programmable thermostats
Pre-programmed thermostats set at energy-efficient temperatures can save the average homeowner about $180 a year. In the winter, keep your thermostat at 65 to 68 degrees during the day and 50 to 60 degrees at night. When you go away for a couple of days you can set it even lower.

Check air filters
Check your the air filter in your heating system frequently. A dirty air filter slows air flow, forcing your heating system to work harder and waste energy. Energy Star recommends changing your air filter at least every three months.

Join an Oil Buying Group
If you heat with fuel oil, consider joining a heating oil co-op or buyers group. These groups buying consortiums are able to negotiate better prices for their customers. On average, members of heating oil programs save 15 to 30 cents a gallon.

Use Your Ceiling Fans
At first it may sound counter-intuitive, but you should actually use your ceiling fans during the winter. A ceiling fan set in reverse can draw warm air through your home, helping to keep it warm.

Add Insulation
One of the most basic ways to make your home more energy efficient is by adding insulation. Energy typically escapes through a house's top floor or attic, so add more insulation and save money.

Schedule a tune-up
A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently and wastes less energy. Call your local HVAC contractor before it gets cold (and they get busy) and schedule a tune-up. It'll save you money in the long run.

Bundle Up
This may be the oldest trick in the book! It doesn’t cost anything to wear warmer clothes inside and by doing so you can keep the thermostat low inside the house and save big.