If the abundance of snow in New York has signaled anything, it is the need to budget higher heating costs. While you can always pull out a Visa cash advance to pay hundreds owed in January’s bill, by next month you might find yourself in the exact same position unless you become proactive about your heating costs. Here are a few ways to reduce the pain while evening out the ups and downs of your heating bill.

Sign Up for the Budget Plan

Your local utility company has a program that will estimate your total costs throughout the year and then spread that across 12 equal monthly payments. By budgeting your utility costs you won’t suffer the huge bills in the winter. Instead, you will get the same bill you got every month. Should heating rates or usage change, the utility company does a new evaluation each year and adjusts the monthly cost as appropriate.

Focus on Energy Upgrades

Some energy upgrades, like energy efficient windows, are still eligible for a 30 percent tax credit in 2011. If you have a little extra money to spare in your budget you can use it to reduce your home’s energy needs by scheduling wise home improvements that provide a tax credit and future energy savings later. The maximum you can qualify for by replacing your windows with qualifying energy-efficient models is $1,500.

Reduce Energy Usage

The simplest way to budget your costs better is to reduce them. You can invest in a programmable thermostat to keep the house cooler when you are away at work, and save some money there. Pay close attention to vents to make sure the flow of air is going to the living spaces you use the most and is shut off for other non-essential parts of the home. Change your filters regularly and keep the system well maintained for the best performance.