Just like summer, winter is a season when your bills are definitely higher. You want to do everything you can to keep your home at just the right temperature so the entire family feels comfortable. However, at the same time, you don’t want to have to spend an arm and a leg. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can save money on your heating bills this winter.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
One of the best ways to save money on your heating bills is to focus on energy efficiency. That’s where a programmable thermostat comes in. If you don’t have one yet, now is the time to buy one. It can help you to save up to 10 to 20 percent on your bill throughout the year. It’s advised to program your heater to turn on just before you wake up and to cool when you are leaving for work. When you return home, it should warm again and cool just before you turn in for the night.
Seal All Leaky Windows and Doors
Chances are, if you live in an older house, you may have some air holes around some windows and doors. This issue can occur even in newer homes. You can fix this problem for very little money and effort by getting weather stripping and caulk. Seal up all the air leaks you can find tightly. You will definitely notice a difference in terms of the temperature in your home and the cost of your heating bills afterward.
Partially Close Vents in Unused Rooms
If your home is large enough that there are some rooms that aren’t used, you will want to partially close them. Avoid fully closing or sealing them as that can lead to excess air pressure in your HVAC system and damage it. You can also partially close the doors to those rooms. But depending on the size of your home, you might be better of with a proper-sized heat pump instead.
Add Insulation to Your Home
Adding insulation to the coldest areas of your home — the basement, attic and crawlspace — is wise. It can help to retain the warm air circulating throughout your home and keep cold air from seeping in. It can help you save money on your heating bills and can also be deducted from your taxes as a home improvement project. You will notice a remarkable difference in the temperature in your house after you have Knauf Insulation put in.
Layer Up
You can also do your part to stay warmer while you’re at home. Wear a sweater or fleece over your shirt. Wear warm slippers when you’re puttering around the house. Layer up by wearing thermal underwear underneath your clothing. You may even want to cuddle up on the couch with a warm blanket while watching TV, reading or using a laptop. These practices can help you to save money on your heating bills.
Use a Space Heater
Use a space heater only on the chilliest days when you’re home. Be sure you only use them safely. This means they should only be used in the room you’re in. You should also make sure to avoid placing them too close to anything that can catch fire. Keep a close eye on the heater while using it. Avoid using it while you’re sleeping as well. Only plug them into a wall outlet and never a surge.
These tips can help you to save precious money on your heating bill during the winter. They can also help you and your family feel more comfortable while you’re indoors.
