Football, holidays, shopping, enjoying comfort foods and snuggling up for a night of television are some of the activities atop the list for enjoying the winter season.

Although most of these activities can apply to anyone - homeowners or apartment dwellers - some things are a little different, and saving energy is one of them. Keeping your apartment warm and cozy doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg; learn how you can save this winter.

•   Pull your shades or close your drapes at night, and leave them open during the day to take full advantage of solar heating on your east, south and west windows.

• If you have a fireplace, be sure to close the damper when you're not using it.
• If you have storm windows, be sure they are completely closed. If you don't have storm windows, install plastic covers (found in your home improvement stores) on windows to keep the drafty cold air out.

 
If your apartment is too hot during the winter, opening the window will not solve the problem and may increase your energy bill. Contact your landlord to get the problem resolved, it might benefit your neighbors and reduce the amount you pay for heating each month.

Sometimes doors can let in a draft that will wreak havoc on your cozy room temperature. Consider weather-stripping to seal those cracks around your doors. The supplies are inexpensive, and you can do-it-yourself. Check under your sinks in your bathroom and kitchen. Sometimes the holes around the pipe entrance are large enough to allow a drafty breeze. These areas can easily be weather-stripped, and you'll be on your way to making a big difference with a few simple changes.
 

Temperature and Humidity

Temperature and humidity have a direct impact on the comfort in your apartment. Lowering your thermostat will save on your monthly heating bill.

• Try not to set your thermostat higher than 72 degrees F when you're at home.
• Lower your thermostat to 65 degrees F or less when you are sleeping or when no one is at home.
• If you own a townhome and have your own furnace, be sure it is energy efficient. If it isn't, consider replacing it with a high efficiency unit. Don't forget to keep your furnace filters clean.
• Remember, turning up the thermostat to the highest or a higher setting will not warm you up any faster.

During the winter, you'll feel warmer if the air in your home is not too dry. Keep an eye on the humidity levels in your home. Try to keep the humidity between 20 and 40%, and you may be able to lower your thermostat setting without feeling cold.