Winter will soon be upon us and with the change in season we will be re-introduced to our good friend - The Canadian Heating Bill! Here are 8 Ways to Save Money this Winter here in the Great White North.

1.)Add an area rug to a tile or hardwood floor. The rug will add comfort and retain heat.

2.)If you have a wood burning fireplace, close the flu! We often forget it's open and heat will escape up and out the chimney.

3.)Keep the thermostat at 68-70 degrees during the day and 65 degrees at night. You'll sleep better when it's cooler too! For each degree you will save about 5% more on your heating bill. If the kids complain, tell them to "put on a sweater!". (You can also add how you walked to school, uphill both ways, in 8 feet of snow.)

4.)Limit your use of portable heaters. They are great in a pinch, but very costly for extended use.

5.)Make sure your heat vents aren't blocked by furniture or drapes!

6.)Change your air filter every month or two. This will not only reduce your heating costs (more then the cost of the filter) but will add to the longevity of your furnace, a costly replacement item.

7.)Leave your window shades, curtains or blinds open during the day. The sun will then happily heat your home for free. Thank you Mr. Sun!

8.)If you're like many of us and take a trip during the winter, reduce your thermostat to 60, BUT DON'T TURN THE HEAT OFF!

Canadian winter's can be a fridgid affair, but they are what make us uniquely Canadian. It also doesn't mean we have to break the bank. Hopefully some of these tips will help you save some money this winter.