I got an interesting email this weekend from a Chicago green home expert who thought we missed the boat on energy efficiency with my post on residential window tinting. While I think it was fine to identify a trend, maybe she’s not the only one interested in ways to make your whole home more energy efficient.

While there’s some disturbing news out today about the Energy Star program, don’t give up on the program just yet – and be aware of government programs designed to help with homeowners efforts to become more efficient energy users, including tax breaks.

Energy audits are a great idea, and some utility companies will offer them for free. There are independent professionals out there, too, who can take a holistic approach to your entire structure and help you make it as energy efficient as possible.

A seasonal check up of your heating and ventilation system is always a good idea.  You can save money by detecting a pending problem that left unchecked could cost you big with an emergency furnace repair call.

If you’re not prepared to invest a lot right now, check out our no- or low-cost ways to save on your winter heating bills .