You Can’t Hide From Winter, But You Can Save On Heating Costs
Winter can mean many things to many people, but unless you live in a tropical paradise, it usually means: SNOW.
Yes, I said it. That four-letter word that used to inspire you as a child, now mocks you as you stare open-mouthed at the heating bill, especially if you have oil heat.
But heating costs don’t have to be such a nuisance standing in the way of comfort. Although you cannot hide from the snow, and everything else winter brings along with it, you can use a few tricks to keep those heating bills low (and maybe even enjoy a wintry mix here and there. maybe.)
The following excerpt is borrowed from an article written by Jonathan Fahey, a journalist for the Associated Press, titled “As Cold Returns, Tips For Saving On Heating Costs.”
“…One obvious way to lower your heating bill is to don some fluffy slippers and turn down the thermostat.” The Energy Department estimates that a resident can save 1 percent on their heating bill for every degree a thermostat is set back. Here are a few other ways:
- Think of the sun as a heater, and your drapes as a blanket: Open drapes when you are getting direct sunlight, then close them at night to keep heat from escaping.
- Make sure the damper in your fireplace is closed when you aren’t using it. — Keep air vents clean and uncovered so heat can easily flow throughout your home.
- Shut off kitchen fans and bathroom fans as soon as they are no longer needed.
- Lower the temperature of your water heater. That can be done without your shower getting noticeably less steamy….”
Read the full article here. Jonathan writes about energy: oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind, solar, geothermal, biofuels, etc. Follow Jonathan Fahey on Twitter at http://twitter.com/JonathanFahey.
Image Credit: iStockphoto
