(10/13/06) WEST HEMPSTEAD ? As winter approaches and heating bills rise, a handful of changes could save Long Island residents a boatload of money.

The Community Development Corporation of Long Island says a few inexpensive additions to a house can reduce heating bills by 25 to 30 percent. Adding insulation to gaps within the walls and padding the attic with at least 12 inches of insulator will help achieve the goal, according to CDC representative Jeff Laino. Installing an air conditioner with an outdoor cover will also cut down on both drafts and costs.

The CDC provides winterization products cost-free to many of Long Island?s elderly residents and low-income households. Laino claims people who can afford to winterize their own houses will reap the benefits on their next bill.

Related Information: Debate over LI home heating warms up as cold approaches