For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere and in the depths of summer, we probably are thinking only about how to keep cool, and not about how to warm up. But the winter months will be here before we know it, and it's good to be prepared in advance. Here's some tips from a reader on how to make sure that when that time of year comes around, your bills will be more manageable.
The amount spent on heating per household continues to climb. With American households facing a 25 percent increase in power bills, many of them will be looking for ways to manage those rising costs. Even before the increase, 31 percent of households struggled to afford their energy bills every month, and in harsher seasons like winter, household heating bills can average as much as $661, according to the American Gas Association. If you are trying to find ways to keep the heat on in your home and your heating costs low, here are some frugal tips to keep your heating bill in the green and make your home energy efficient in the process.
Capitalize On Off-Peak Rates For Heating Usage
One of the simplest ways to save money on your heating bill is to take advantage of your supplier’s off-peak rates. This will vary according to your supplier, but generally, the off-peak period falls between 11 pm and 6 am. Alternatively, revisit your energy plan with your supplier for lower-cost options. Energy companies like 4Change have Budget Savers and Eco Saver Plus plans where you pay a fixed price (as low as $79).
Keep Vents And Radiators Cleaned And Maintained
Another thing you can do to keep your heating costs down is to stay on track with your home maintenance, including your vents and radiators. Avoid placing furniture or clothing on your radiator since it may hinder the flow of warm air. You also want to make time to clean your vents and radiators, removing any built-up dust that may be preventing optimal performance and encouraging allergens in your home. You should also aim to change your air filter every 6-12 months. Investing in a quality air filter helps to heat your home efficiently and to make it more budget-friendly, you can use a furnace filters coupon.
Lower Your Thermostat By One Degree And Bundle Up
For every one degree you lower your thermostat, you can save up to 3 percent off your heating bill, according to the DOE Energy Savers website. In fact, the ideal temperature for your home during winter is 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and in summer, your thermostat should be set to 78 degrees. However, many homeowners will tell you that they often have their heating much higher than this. For those still feeling chilly after turning down the thermostat, the use of warm clothing like a sweater and thick socks can help.
Another trick is to invest in a programmable thermostat which automatically adjusts and turns the heating off when you are not at home or not using it. Programmable thermostats can save you 10-20 percent on your heating bill, and some models can cost as little as $50. With over half of the $2,200 energy bill for American households going on heating costs, this small move can add up to sizeable savings.
Many of these suggestions are easy on your wallet or even free to do. However, by implementing them today, you can see your heating costs drop almost immediately.
The amount spent on heating per household continues to climb. With American households facing a 25 percent increase in power bills, many of them will be looking for ways to manage those rising costs. Even before the increase, 31 percent of households struggled to afford their energy bills every month, and in harsher seasons like winter, household heating bills can average as much as $661, according to the American Gas Association. If you are trying to find ways to keep the heat on in your home and your heating costs low, here are some frugal tips to keep your heating bill in the green and make your home energy efficient in the process.
Capitalize On Off-Peak Rates For Heating Usage
One of the simplest ways to save money on your heating bill is to take advantage of your supplier’s off-peak rates. This will vary according to your supplier, but generally, the off-peak period falls between 11 pm and 6 am. Alternatively, revisit your energy plan with your supplier for lower-cost options. Energy companies like 4Change have Budget Savers and Eco Saver Plus plans where you pay a fixed price (as low as $79).
Keep Vents And Radiators Cleaned And Maintained
Another thing you can do to keep your heating costs down is to stay on track with your home maintenance, including your vents and radiators. Avoid placing furniture or clothing on your radiator since it may hinder the flow of warm air. You also want to make time to clean your vents and radiators, removing any built-up dust that may be preventing optimal performance and encouraging allergens in your home. You should also aim to change your air filter every 6-12 months. Investing in a quality air filter helps to heat your home efficiently and to make it more budget-friendly, you can use a furnace filters coupon.
Lower Your Thermostat By One Degree And Bundle Up
For every one degree you lower your thermostat, you can save up to 3 percent off your heating bill, according to the DOE Energy Savers website. In fact, the ideal temperature for your home during winter is 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and in summer, your thermostat should be set to 78 degrees. However, many homeowners will tell you that they often have their heating much higher than this. For those still feeling chilly after turning down the thermostat, the use of warm clothing like a sweater and thick socks can help.
Another trick is to invest in a programmable thermostat which automatically adjusts and turns the heating off when you are not at home or not using it. Programmable thermostats can save you 10-20 percent on your heating bill, and some models can cost as little as $50. With over half of the $2,200 energy bill for American households going on heating costs, this small move can add up to sizeable savings.
Many of these suggestions are easy on your wallet or even free to do. However, by implementing them today, you can see your heating costs drop almost immediately.