The first frost has come and melted. Is your home ready for winter? NOCO shares some energy tips to make sure your home isn’t caught in the cold this winter.

Here's what the experts had to say:

• Replace your furnace filter. That's the only thing you should do yourself when it comes to your furnace. A dirty filter can put unnecessary strain on your furnace or cause damage, increasing your overall energy costs.
• Get your furnace checked now, and every year. Don't do this yourself. 
• Get a programmable thermostat to set temperatures based on your family’s schedule. Keep your house cooler during the day when no one is home. 
• Check the batteries in your thermostat. They should be changed out at least once a year.
• Add caulk or weather stripping to seal leaks around doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping. You can check whether hot air is escaping by running your hand around the frames. 
• Keep blinds open during the day to let the sunshine in, it's free heat. Shut your blinds at night to keep the warm air in.
• Ceiling fans aren’t just for the summer. Set the fan to rotate clockwise in the winter. 
• Check all your air vents to be sure they are not blocked by furniture, curtains or toys.