Temperatures have dropped to below freezing. As you enter the winter season, you’re probably wondering how to save money on heating bills. Fortunately for you, there are many things to try for both the thrifty and the spender. So many, in fact, that we’ve put together a two-part series on the topic! So sit back, open your mind, and try out some of these tips!
Windows & Doors
- Harness the power of the sun. Open the curtains on the South-facing side of your home during the heat of the day. The sun will shine in and provide natural heat. Just don’t forget to close them back up at night when the cold creeps in.
- Replace single pane windows. Double or even triple pane windows put an extra air cushion (or two) between your home and the outside air.
- Install insulating drapes or shades. Thicker window treatments can put an extra, insulating air cushion between your home and the windows.
- Cover windows and glass doors in plastic. Use Saran wrap to add yet another layer of insulation.
- Adjust the thresholds of your doors. If you see light coming in from under your door, you should raise the threshold. There are typically screws in the threshold for this purpose.
- Replace old weatherstripping. Weatherstripping around windows and doors should be replaced every 2-3 years for maximum efficiency.
- Lock your windows. Locked windows are pushed against the weatherstripping, making a better seal than unlocked windows.
Your Heating System
- Close vents in unused rooms. If your house is heated by a forced-air system, close the vents in the rooms you aren’t using. This will push air into the rooms in use.
- Replace your air filters regularly. In forced-air systems, filters should be changed once a month or so.
- Upgrade your system. Switch to a system that utilizes a more efficient fuel source, such as natural gas, wood pellets, or geothermal energy.
- Keep your heating vents clear. Sometimes furniture or rugs block heating vents, rendering them useless.
- Reprogram your thermostat. Set your thermostat to 10° or 15° lower than usual while you are sleeping and when you are away.
- Schedule routine maintenance. Receiving routine maintenance on your furnace or boiler helps you identify parts that need to be repaired or replaced and prevents future inefficiencies.
- Patch leaky ducts. Your ductwork may have some gaps that leak heat. Patch these using metal tape found at your local hardware store.
Saving money on heating bills can be as easy as opening and closing your curtains during the right hours of the day. Sometimes, however, you need to bring in the professionals. If you are concerned about the operation of your heating system and would like to schedule maintenance, contact your local, HVAC company.
