Here are some steps you can take now to lower your winter heating bill:

Have an energy audit done of your home. Most people know about obvious heat leaks in their home, but an energy audit can reveal energy drains that you don't know about.

Families whose household income falls within 150 percent of federal poverty level guidelines can have an audit performed for free by calling their natural gas company. For others, Conservation Consultants Inc., a South Side-based nonprofit, will conduct an audit for $150. Executive Director Ann Gerace said homeowners typically save at least 25 percent on their heating bill after carrying out the recommendations of an energy audit.

However, in one of the older homes that are so abundant in Pittsburgh, carrying out all of those recommendations may take time.

"We put everything they should do in a priority list," Ms. Gerace said.

Winterize your home. Use weather-stripping, caulking, plastic film or storm windows or doors to seal out drafts. Install a minimum of R-30 insulation in attics and ceilings. Check ducts for cracks or broken seams and keep ducts and grills clean. Insulate hot water pipes and ducts in unheated areas. Use draft-stopping gaskets specially made to fit behind light switch plates and electric sockets.

Have your furnace inspected. Then, change your furnace filter monthly -- dirty filters make your furnace work harder.

As the weather cools, set your thermostat no higher than 68 degrees. Keep it lower at night and while you're away -- a programmable thermostat may be a good investment. Every degree you lower the heat can save as much as 3 percent on your heating bills. However, some experts recommend avoiding daily fluctuations of more than 10 degrees. If you have a heat pump, keep it at an even setting or you'll waste more energy than you save.

Set your water heater at 120 degrees or less. If your water gets so hot that you have to mix it with cold water to use it, you are wasting money. Wrap the tank with an insulated water heater blanket. Turn off the heater while away for extended periods.

Check your gas appliances. If they aren't operating properly, they could be wasting energy.

Enroll in your gas company's budget plan. To sign up, pay the budget amount offered on your bill or call your provider.

If you use fuel oil or propane, order deliveries now and negotiate fuel delivery contracts for the entire season if you can.