Stay Warm and Save Money This Winter

With energy costs on the rise, you may be wondering how you can reduce or control your winter utility bills. You may even be tempted to simply turn down the thermostat, but there are several ways you can lower your energy bills while staying warm this winter:

• Use a programmable thermostat to automatically lower your temperature when you’re not home.
• Seal areas where heat could escape from your windows and doors.
• Ensure radiators and vents are unobstructed.
• Open curtains and windows during the day and close them at night.
• Check your home air filter or furnace filter and replace it according to the suggested schedule.
• Have a professional inspect your HVAC systems for leaks or wear.
• Close the vents and shut the doors to rooms you’re not using.
• Consider other sources of energy waste (e.g., leaky faucets, inefficient light bulbs).

Heating costs are predicted to rise 28% for U.S. households relying on natural gas and 27% for those using heating oil. Electricity costs are also anticipated to increase 10% per the U.S. Energy Department. By using the above tips, and consulting the Department of Energy’s Energy Saver Guide, you can be well on your way to managing your winter utility bill.