Now is the time to start winterizing your home, before your monthly heating bill starts to skyrocket. There are plenty of energy-saving things you can do to keep your heating costs down. The key is to save more in heating costs than you spend in the process!

Caulk and Add Weather Stripping

You can cut heat loss by up to 25% by adding weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows. Measure around all your windows, then head to the hardware store and get a caulking gun, some caulk, and enough weather stripping to seal up all your windows. These energy-saving efforts in reducing your heating costs will far outweigh the cost of the material.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Installation is simple, and then you can adjust the heat down when you’re at work or gone during the day and don’t need it, then have the heat kick in before you get up in the morning, when you’re back home, and after you go to bed at night. This could save you up to 10% on your heating bills.

Close Fireplace Dampers

When you’re not using your wood-burning fireplace keep the damper closed so heat can’t escape up the chimney flue. If you just had a fire in the fireplace, make sure the fire is completely out and the ashes are cold before you close it, though, so smoke isn’t forced into your home. Gas fireplaces must have the damper open at all times.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

Reverse the rotation of your ceiling fans to clockwise so it pushes the warm air that naturally rises down into the room. (Then remember to change them back to counter-clockwise when the weather warms up next spring.)

Change Furnace Filters

Check your furnace filters monthly to make sure they aren’t clogged. A clogged filter keeps heat from efficiently circulating through your home and increases heating costs.

Clean Heating Vents and Radiators

Heating vents need to be unobstructed so the warm air can flow throughout your home. If your vents can open and close, it’s a good idea to check to make sure they’re open, and look for lint or other obstructions that are causing a reduction in airflow.

Insulate Electrical Outlets

Electrical outlets on an outside wall in your home can let cold air seep in. Although it’s a small area, cold air can find its way in. There are insulated outlet covers available that are easy to install and will help with your energy-saving costs.

Close Off Unused Rooms

There’s no need to heat unused bedrooms or storerooms during the cold months. Close the heating vents and keep the doors shut to save on your heating bill.

Use Blankets to Keep Warm

Keeping your house a little cooler can save money, but occasionally you might feel a little chilly. Instead of cranking up the thermostat, keep a blanket nearby and wrap in it to use your body heat to keep you warm. It’s also a nice feeling to snuggle on the couch while watching TV!

Cook at Home

Not only is cooking at home generally less expensive than dining out, it allows the heat from the stove or oven to help heat your house. Cooking adds a little moisture to the air which makes the house feel warmer, too.

By using some of these tips, you can save a bundle of money on your heating costs in the winter without spending a lot of money.

Make sure your home is well insured, too! Get a free, no-obligation quote today!

Sources: Puget Sound Energy, www.energy.gov