Lower Your Heating Bill -- Practical Ways and Ideas to Save Money on Heating ExpensesRather than feeling hopeless about the cost of fuel, take some proactive measure to lower your bill if possible. Here are some ideas: 1. Turn the thermostat down a few degrees. This does not mean you have to sit in your house and freeze, but turning your heat down a few degrees would lower your heating bill 2-3% for each degree. It would not be that hard for your family to get used to a change of a degree or two or three. 2. Close your curtains when possible at night. If you have insulated curtains and you keep them shut, this will help block any drafts that may get through your windows. Another thing to remember is to make sure that every window in your house is locked for the tightest seal against the wind/elements. 3. Be sure to have your furnace serviced annually. Every fall, before the cold weather comes, have your furnace serviced. This can save anywhere from 3-8% on your heating costs each year, plus you ensure that your furnace will last longer.
4. Seal any cracks in your home to lower your heating bill. Do a thorough search through your house. Look around windows, doors, and chimneys. For a quick fix of any small cracks, use the expanding foam insulation spray. 5. Let the sunlight in when the sun is shining! Open up your shades and curtains, and let the heat of the sun’s rays help to warm your home. (Don’t forget to close them at night, though). 6. Limit your hot-water usage. Do not take super long showers. Wash clothing with a cold-water detergent. Every time you use hot water, you are burning extra fuel. 7. Put storm windows and storm doors on your house. This saves by helping you keep the cold air out more effectively. If you don’t have them on your home now, add them one at a time. Each one will help you reduce your heating bill. 8. Make sure you have outlet covers in all the outlets. Believe it or not, in many older homes, you can actually put your hand in front of the outlets and feel cold air blowing in. Even if you do not have young children, make sure your outlets are covered to prevent this cold air from entering your home. If heating is really a struggle for you, and you are a low-income household, check with your state and county government. Often there are low-income energy assistance programs available to help you pay. It is at least worth checking into. Other more drastic measure to lower your heating bill can include using an alternative heating source such as solar panels, or installing a pellet or wood stove. These ideas are sensible, but you have to have the money to invest in them initially. Alternative Home Heating Ideas to Save Money
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