Fall is just around the corner, which means it’s time to make sure your home is ready for a cold winter. Your AC bill is finally starting to drop, but if you’re worried about the heat spiking it back up, here are some tips to ensure an energy-efficient home.

The better insulated your home is, the more cold/heat is retained. This is what’s really going to keep your bills at a manageable amount. There are even tax credits distributed for certain types. The best products for insulation are cellular shades and shutters because they create an airspace “barrier” between your window and the room. The more cells the shade has, the more energy efficient because it retains more. Also, the larger the cell size, the better the insulation since the cells “trap” air in the pockets, which helps prevent extreme temperature changes in your home.

Are there any other leaks in your home? Check for cracks and seal them up. This could save 10% on annual energy bills, according to Energy Star. Doors and windows are the biggest culprits for air to sneak in. Also check the baseboards and corners for any holes or cracks.

Automated thermostats are better at maintaining temperature in the home than manual ones. The amount spent on installation will even out when your energy bill lowers. There are also automated systems that can sync with your lights and time it so that your lights and thermostat are managed while away from the home. Home automation is expensive, but can effectively reduce the amount of energy you’re using.