Winter Energy Savings - Eight great ways to save on your heating costs this winter Since natural gas prices are expected to be 7% higher in 2005 and the fact that oil prices are hovering around the $50 per barrel mark, it is obvious that families across the country need to find ways to save on their energy bills. Danny has some proven ways to help you though saving this winter.
 1. Have Furnace Serviced
Your heat source is the biggest user of energy in your home during the winter. It only makes sense that your system should run as efficiently as possible. Having the heating system serviced and changing the filter regularly will ensure the system is operating as efficiently and inexpensively as possible.
2. Lower Temperature at Thermostat
For every degree that you lower the temperate in your home, you will save 2 - 3 % of your total heating bill. You can adjust the temperature manually or install a programmable thermostat to do this automatically.
3. Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
A ceiling fan on low, running clockwise, will re-circulate the warmer air that rises to the upper areas of your rooms. Recycling this air will make your rooms more comfortable
4. Lower Water Heater Temperature
Your water heater works 24 hours a day to provide you with instant hot water when needed. Lowering this temperature will make your water heater work less, saving you money.
5. Insulate Water Pipes
Hot water pipes that are not insulated will immediately start to lose BTU's as soon as the water leaves your water heater. Insulating these lines with readily available "pipe wrap" will decrease the cost of heating your water.
6. Add Insulation to Attic
Almost every attic needs more insulation. Plastic encapsulated insulation batts make installing additional insulation "itch free" and safer for the do-it-yourselfer. All homes need at least 12" - 14" of insulation.
7. Seal Gaps & Cracks
Small cracks around windows, hose bibs and doors allow cold air to infiltrate the home causing a more expensive effort to keep temperatures comfortable within the home. Sealing these cracks with exterior caulk or foam will make it easier and cheaper to heat your home this winter.
8. Insulate Your Windows
If new, insulated windows are not in your budget, consider applying an inexpensive window insulation kit. This kit contains double stick tape and a thin plastic film that when installed on the interior of your window, creates an air cushion to block cold air.
For additional information, visit www.energystar.gov |
