Instead of the Winter Blues, Try the Winter Greens and Save Money!
The weather has been crazy lately with temperatures in 60’s one day to blustery winds and highs in the 20’s the next! Either way, we know that even though gas prices are finally dropping our energy bills are going to be rising over the next few months. I thought that I would share some tips on saving some $$ this season as well as making your home more comfortable.
1. Invest in a Programmable thermostat- this way you can set your heater to lower the temperature in the house while you are at work or sleeping. Also, you never want to set the temperature too low (50 degrees for example) in the winter because your heater then has to work harder to get the house to a comfy temperature (say 68 degrees) when you are there and actually uses more energy (aka $) than if you had just turned it down a bit (65 degrees).
2. Use your ceiling fans! People think of fans only as a means to cool things off, but many modern fans have low reverse settings that actually keep the heat circulating throughout the house (instead of collecting on the top floor and escaping through the roof). This helps your heater use less energy (aka $)!
3. Insulate- this is probably the cheapest way to save big bucks, but requires some more time and energy. You can buy weather stripping and caulk for a few dollars at your local hardware store. Weather stripping is great for exterior doorways and caulk is great around windows to keep out the cold air that’s been seeping into your home!
4. If you have a fireplace or wood burning stove, buy a fan or blower for it. If you think about it, most of the heat from your fireplace goes right up the flue. If you buy a fan or blower specifically designed for this, it will help circulate this inexpensive heat throughout your home, making your fireplace or wood burning stove more than just something nice to look at. And most importantly, don’t forget to close your flue after your fire goes out- it’s like leaving a window open if you don’t!
5. Change the filter in your heating system. Most people rarely change their filters, which greatly effects the efficiency of your heater/ac units.
6. Buy an energy efficient home! Although not everyone is in a position to buy a new home, it’s not only a great time to buy, but the options on the market not are incredible. There are homes that use 60% less energy than traditionally constructed homes with the use of solar energy, radiant heat, incredible insulation, and more! Call me for more info, and have a cozy winter.
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