One of the biggest concerns homeowners have about inflation is the effect it will have on home-heating costs, especially as the cold-weather months descend upon us.
 
While the state of the economy may be out of our hands, we can take steps to soften the impact it will have on our budgets, such as these strategies from Consumer Reports (CR) for curbing heating costs while also staying warm.
 
Lower thermostats. While lowering your home's temperature during the cold winter months may not seem like an option, it's actually a relatively painless way to save money. According to the Energy Department, turning thermostats down by 7 - 10 degrees when you're not home and at bedtime can save you 10% on annual heating costs. A smart thermostat can do this for you by automatically adjusting to your habits and weather conditions. While the initial investment may cost you $100 - $300, it can save you an additional 8% on your heating and cooling bills.

Use your fireplace wisely. While a great source of heat—and ambience—a fireplace can actually increase your heating costs if used improperly. Start by having your fireplace inspected and cleaned each year, and be sure to close the damper when it's not in use. CR recommends a chimney liner, tempered glass doors and a fireplace heat exchange, which warms the air and sends it back into your room. And, if you don't use your fireplace at all, a fireplace plug will cost you about $60 and prevent your heat from escaping.
 
Work your windows. Prevent heat from escaping and minimize drafts by being vigilant about your window coverings. According to CR, insulated shades and thermal curtains can reduce the amount of heat you lose through windows by at least 40 percent. Make sure curtains are hung close to your window panes and drop to the floor or windowsill. Keep shades up and curtains drawn during the day to let the sun's warmth heat your home.
 
Reverse ceiling fans. Reversing the direction of your ceiling fans so that they turn counter clockwise will help push warm air down from the ceiling.

Take advantage of cooking heat. When using the oven to cook meals, let it serve double duty to heat your home. Once you turn it off after cooking, leave the oven door open so that the heat escapes and warms the kitchen.
 
Remember, when it comes to saving money, the small details matter and quickly add up, so put these ideas into action to help reduce heating costs.