This time of year, it’s not just basketball madness that people feel. The volatile Indiana weather can feel like all four seasons in one day.

This spring, your home’s temperature may feel like it’s soaring and sinking with the weather. To avoid scary energy bills caused by your heating and cooling system working harder than needed, three words — seal, insulate, and equip — can ensure you’re prepared for weather volatility.

Seal air leaks to prevent drafts

If your home feels chilly, then creepy crawlies may not be the only things hiding in your attic or crawlspace. Air leaks may be causing conditioned air to escape. You should search for and seal any air leaks. The most critical leaks to seal are in your attic and down low in your basement or crawlspace. Framing and places where plumbing, electrical wiring, or ducts poke through the ceiling must also be checked. Sealing air leaks keeps your warm air inside during the winter and cool air indoors in the summer.

Properly insulate your house to maximize comfort

This step should be taken after sealing air leaks. Air leaking through the insulation decreases its benefits. If part of your HVAC ductwork is located in the attic, it is especially important to seal it and bury it in insulation. By adding insulation properly, your HVAC system will have to work less to maintain the temperature in your house, saving you electricity and money.

Make sure you have the proper systems to heat and cool your home

After you have sealed air leaks and properly insulated your home, you can check into new equipment. Now that some of your home’s issues are resolved, you may need smaller equipment to heat and cool your home properly. A smaller, right-sized, and more energy-efficient system will increase electricity savings, helping your wallet well into the future.

The best way to diagnose issues in your home is to schedule an energy audit. You can contact your local electric cooperative’s energy advisor for details. Your co-op may even be able to provide the audit, which includes recommendations on steps you can take to improve your home’s energy efficiency. You can get an idea of what options — and Power Moves® rebates — are available to keep you comfortable all year long.