The Midwest always suffers harsh winters, and with several bills rising in the upcoming months, how can you stay in the green this winter? Here are some simple steps to help you save money on your gas bill.

Install or Clean Your Air Filters

According to the Department of Energy, replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can reduce energy consumption by as much as 15 percent. Most HVAC professionals recommend replacing all air filters at least once every 3 months. When filters become too clogged, they can force your furnace to work overtime — and cleaner filters also mean better air quality throughout your home.

Lower Your Thermostat

Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees can save you up to 10 percent on your monthly bill. Try turning your heat down to 70 or 68 degrees and bundling up with a sweater and socks to stay warm instead of relying solely on your furnace.

Air Dry Clothes and Clean the Lint Filter

If you can, consider drying your clothes in the bathroom or living room instead of using the dryer. If that isn't possible, always empty the lint filter after every single use. This ensures your dryer doesn't have to work as hard — and keeps you from having to run a second cycle.

Lower Your Water Heater Thermostat

Dropping your water heater thermostat by just 10 degrees can help you save 6 to 10 percent on your energy bill. Gas water heaters already save households consistently more than electric water heaters, but every little bit helps during the fall and winter months.

Insulate Your Windows and Doors

A drafty home is an energy-inefficient home. Drafts from inadequately sealed windows and doors are almost always the biggest source of energy loss, especially in older homes or apartment buildings. Use spray sealant or caulk to seal windows, and invest in new weather stripping for doors. According to the Department of Energy, addressing uncontrolled air leaks can save anywhere between 10 and 20 percent on monthly heating costs.

Make Sure Vents Aren't Covered

It may seem like a no-brainer, but covered vents are an easy-to-overlook source of higher energy bills. Keeping vents clear removes any fire hazard risk and ensures your heating system doesn't have to work any harder than necessary to heat your whole home.

Use Cold Water to Wash Clothes

Using colder water not only helps save on heating costs but may also help your clothes last a little longer. Warm or hot water can shrink or fade many types of clothing and requires more energy. Where possible, try to reduce the number of loads that require hot water each month.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fan Rotation

Reversing the direction of your ceiling fan to travel clockwise pushes the warm air near the ceiling downward. To do so, wait until the fan has completely stopped, then look for a switch on the motor housing. Once flipped and turned back on, you should feel no airflow standing beneath it — and you could save up to 15 percent on your bill.

Open Curtains and Let the Sun Shine In

What better way to heat your home than a source that's 100% free? Open the curtains and blinds during the day to let the sun keep you and your family warm. And remember to close them at night to seal in the warmth and keep the cold out.

If you're looking for even more savings on your gas bill this winter, check out our rates page and enroll in one of our variable rate plans today!