Keeping the house at a constant temperature is a good way to maximize savings on heating costs. Turning it up or down too much means it will just have to work harder to get the house back to the ideal temperature. A good guideline is 60 to 65 degrees when you are away or asleep, … [Read more...] about Keep to a constant 65-70 degrees
Gas & Oil
Keep the doors and vents of any unused rooms closed
A great way to save on heating costs is to keep doors to unused rooms closed. This way the heater won't work to unnecessarily heat rooms that are not in use. Likewise, where possible, close the vents to those rooms as well (unless you have forced air heating). Limit the opening … [Read more...] about Keep the doors and vents of any unused rooms closed
Install door sweeps and draft stoppers to minimize heat loss
Small, insulating door sweeps installed on the of bottom doors can help hold heat in a room or heating zone. This is especially important for outside doors to keep the cold weather out. They are easy to install and cost less that $10. Also consider door snakes or draft stoppers … [Read more...] about Install door sweeps and draft stoppers to minimize heat loss
Don’t get caught by variable rates
Generally speaking, as the price of oil rises and falls, so does the price of heating oil. Some companies adjust prices accordingly, while others ask customers to lock in a rate before winter starts. In this case, make sure there is a clause in the contract that states that … [Read more...] about Don’t get caught by variable rates
Choose ENERGY STAR rated water heaters and furnaces
Energy efficient appliances are key to saving money on utility bills. ENERGY STAR rated water heaters and furnaces are a smart buy and will pay for themselves through cheaper heating costs. Look for energy efficient water heaters in the following categories: solar, high … [Read more...] about Choose ENERGY STAR rated water heaters and furnaces