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Drive down home heating costs this winter
With the winter just weeks ago, most consumers are worried about increased energy costs for home heating. Fortunately, there are a number of ways consumers can lower heating costs. Keep reading to find out what you can do to lower heating costs this winter.
Caulk and weather strip windows, doors and anywhere else cold air can get in or warm air can get out.
Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable. When you are asleep or out of the house, turn your thermostat back 10°–15° for eight hours. You’ll save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills! (Tip: A programmable thermostat automatically lowers the temperature.)
Buy products that have the federal government's "Energy Star" label.
Repair leaks in faucets, particularly hot water faucets.
Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F).
Insulate hot water and heating pipes in areas that do not need to be heated (like the basement).
Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and close them at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.
Wear warmer clothes, even indoors!
Want more info on energy efficiency and home heating? Click below for government-related websites.
Department of Energy
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Energy Information Administration
