Midwinter is a good time to check for ways to reduce home energy consumption and prevent appliance and equipment breakdowns.

Here are eight home maintenance tips to improve energy efficiency and keep appliances and heating systems running well. 

• Pay attention to changes in the performance of appliances and heating and cooling equipment. 
  
  Changes in performance are often signs of larger problems. Troubleshoot and complete repairs as needed to improve energy efficiency and avoid costly repairs later. 
   


• Change the furnace or air-handler air filter.
  
  This should happen every three months, or more frequently, depending on the region. A clean air filter is critical to home air quality and to the proper furnace or air-handler operation. Homeowners should periodically check the condition of the furnace or air-handler's filter to determine frequency necessary for changing the filters in their homes.
   


•  Clean or replace the humidifier filter, if equipped.

• Seal the exterior.
  
  Gaps and holes in a home's exterior will cause drafts and increase heating costs. Use expanding foam to seal exterior holes. Seal gaps around window and door frames with weatherstripping and caulking.
  
  


• Clean out dryer venting.
  
  Use a long dryer vent-cleaning brush to remove lint buildup from inside the dryer through the outside venting. Lint buildup in dryer venting is an extreme fire risk. A thorough venting clean-out should happen at least once annually.
  
  


• Thoroughly clean the refrigerator's condenser coils.
  
  Use a bristle brush to clear dust and dirt from the condenser coils. Dirty coils will cause the refrigerator to have to work longer and will lead to premature wear of key components. 
  
  


• Replace the refrigerator water filter, if equipped. 
  
  Refrigerator water filters should be replaced every six months or more frequently.