This time of year, you can watch your money fly out the window if you're heating your home improperly.

So to avoid this, the experts recommend a few things, including keeping the outside air from coming inside your house. Plastic around your windows and good weatherstripping can help. Also don't turn off the thermostat. Instead turn it down 3 to 5 degrees when leaving for the day. This is less stressful on your furnace. And finally get a humidifier to add moisture to the air making it feel warmer.

It's estimated monthly heating costs, on average, can run close to $200. But proper weatherization can save you 20 to 30 percent.