Energy Conservation: Keeping Warm without Going Broke
By Michele Blandino
The higher prices we are paying at the pump to fill up our automobiles are not the only effect of the recent stormy weather in the Gulf of Mexico. This winter, people all across the country will most likely find themselves paying much more to heat their homes than they did a year ago.
In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy predicts that the cost of heating a home with natural gas will increase by $200 this winter, from $1,000 to $1,200 while homeowners using oil heat can expect to pay roughly $250 more.
While little can be done to combat these rising costs, by implementing some energy-saving steps, you can still manage to keep your heating costs near last year's levels.
Here are some ideas:
- Buy Ahead - Because fuel oil and propane gas is generally less expensive during the late summer and early fall, you should arrange for a delivery during this time rather than waiting for the cold weather to settle in. Further, some companies will negotiate fixed-price deals for the entire season provided the deal is closed by a certain date.
- Turn it Down - If your house is generally empty during the day, turn down the thermostat a few degrees before you leave; better yet, install a programmable thermostat that will automatically reduce the house's temperature during the day and warm it back up in time for your return home. Likewise, throw an extra blanket or two on your bed and turn down the thermostat at night.
- Let the Sun Shine In - Keep the blinds and drapes open during the day so that the sun's rays can warm the room. Not only will you feel a little more comfortable, seeing the sun will help you to overcome the winter doldrums.
- Check for Drafts - When the weather begins to turn colder, walk around the house to see if you feel any cold drafts of air and plug any gaps you find with caulk or weather stripping. If you still feel a draft at the base of your door - a fairly common problem, particularly in older homes - purchase a draft stopper to place against the door.
- Get a Tune-up - A well-maintained furnace will be much more efficient than one that hasn't been serviced in several years. A word of caution, don't wait until the last minute to call for an appointment; as the weather begins to turn colder, it will take longer for a repairperson to be available.
- Return to Basics - If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, by all means, use it. As you raise the temperature of the room in which the unit is located, you will likely be able to lower your thermostat a few degrees. A word of caution: if you are using a fireplace, be sure to close the damper after the fire is totally extinguished so that cold air doesn't draft into the house.