Costly but necessary home improvements to get done sooner than later [Video]

With holiday spending just behind us, the last thing anyone wants to hear about is how to spend more money. But what if that spending could rack up savings down the road?

From home heating hacks to window recommendations, the experts at Consumer Reports reveal money-saving investments for you and your home.

The decorations are down, and the holiday hullabaloo is behind us. Consumer Reports says the new year is a good time to turn your attention to something less flashy—home maintenance and improvement—starting with how you heat your home.

Heating your house can account for as much as 30 percent of your utility bills, so it’s important that everything runs at peak efficiency. If you haven’t already done so for the year, it’s time to get your heating system serviced.

To keep warm air inside, check for air leaks. Light a stick of incense and hold it in front …