CENTRAL NEW YORK -- With cold temperatures right around the corner and oil prices through the roof, people are wondering the best way is to heat their homes this winter without breaking the bank.

Michael McClellan has been a service technician for eight years. He says a gas furnace is the most efficient way to go.

"There really isn't a cheaper alternative, with wood pellets, you pay more with the wood," said McClellan.

McClellan says a furnace, if serviced regularly, can last up to 15 years. By servicing the furnace yearly, it will also run more effectively, which will help keep you from being caught out in the cold in the winter.

Homeowners who have a gas furnace should clean their air ducts and have their filters checked, something McClellan says people should do once a month.

"A lot of people don't realize that and by changing your filter monthly, you're increasing your airflow also. You're not wasting energy," McClellan said.

McClellan says a furnace also doesn't require as much maintenance as other heat sources just as long as you take care of it.

"If you're nice to your furnace it's going to be nice to you," said McClellan.