Long Islanders pay some of the highest energy costs in the nation, even when keeping the thermostat at the recommended setting.

That's why Cheryl Nickens, of Hempstead, had a home energy assessment done.

Entities like Community Development Long Island and PSEG do free home assessments to identify energy inefficiencies.

They found a leaky roof, windows that don't shut and improperly insulated walls were all reasons for her high energy bills.

"Walked through my house and asked me about different things that needed to be done and saw some of the things that needed to be done," said Nickens.

Community Development Long Island visits hundreds of a homes a year performing energy efficiency audits, which find where heat and cool air are escaping.

CDLI made the assessment that Nickens' home was leaking energy and money. They will be making the repairs and even replacing energy-hogging appliances.

If you're looking for a home assessment, CDLI will do one for free. Experts will come to your house to see what improvements can be made so you can save money on energy costs in the long run.

"It doesn't cost anyone to give us a call, to have us come into their home and do that energy efficiency test," said Gwen O'Shea, president and CEO of Community Development Long Island.

O'Shea says some repair work can be free, too. All of CDLI's programs are based on income.

Once the work is done, CDLI says Nickens will save hundreds of dollars a year on energy costs.

PSEG Long Island also does free home energy assessments for customers.

People can also visit New York state's website to schedule a free home energy assessment with a local participating contractor.