As the days start to get cooler, there are a number of things we can begin to look forward to again. From our favorite cozy sweaters to sipping a warm beverage by the fireplace, winter is all about finding ways to stay toasty. However, this also means higher heating bills.
Getting an astronomical heating bill can put a serious damper on your winter season. Luckily, there are a few easy (and surprising!) things you can do to lower your expenses and save some cash.
1. Program Your Heating
If you're looking to shave some dollars off your heat bill, one of the best things you can do is automate your home's heating. By purchasing a programmable thermostat, you can easily change the temperature of your home with very little effort. Choosing to lower your heat when you go to bed or when you're out of the house for the day can help you save some serious cash.
If you don't already have one, purchase a programmable thermostat. Then schedule your heat to lower or rise depending on your family's schedules. However, keep in mind that if you turn your heat off completely, it will need to work harder to boost back up. Instead, keep your range within a few degrees. Make things even easier and purchase a thermostat that connects to your smartphone with wifi capabilities so you can adjust your home's temperature even when you're away!
2. Skip the Fireplace
Starting up a fire seems to be a classic way to bring more heat into your home. However, it doesn't always do the trick. In fact, starting a fire could actually be making your home colder. Because the chimney pulls the warm air up and out of your house, you may be losing heat each time you start a fire. Additionally, the open chimney provides cold winter air with an opportunity to get inside.
You don't need to give up the use of your fireplace completely. However, it isn't smart to rely solely on heat from your fire to warm up your home. Additionally, you'll want to make sure your damper is completely closed whenever your fireplace isn't in use. You can also try an alternative to a traditional fireplace, including natural gas or propane fireplaces that do not require chimneys.
3. Lock Your Doors and Windows
The locks on your doors and windows can do more than just keep your family safe. By choosing to completely shut your windows or doors, you're able to close the tiny gaps that may be letting cold air through. Closing the lock seals the cold air out and the warm air in.
If you're still experiencing a cold breeze coming through your window gaps, you can take the extra step and add an additional sealant to the seems. Helping to shut these open areas can prevent drafts and help you keep your heating bills lower.
4. Cut the Hot Showers
Jumping in a hot shower on a cold day may feel amazing, but it could be costing you. Because you use your heat to warm up your water, taking long, hot showers could be adding more money to your bill. If you're looking to lower your expenses, you may need to cut the amount of time you and your family spends showering.
Even just shortening your showers by a few minutes can help you save money. Additionally, opt for warm water over piping hot. While you may be tempted to crank the hot water as far as it will go, cooling it down a bit can save you cash.
You may feel like you need to choose between saving money and staying warm. However, you don't need to empty your bank account just to keep from freezing this winter. Try these five tips to help cut your heating bill and put more cash in your pocket!
Have you tried out these tips and are still having issues? Call us today at (909) 792-2222 or request a quote and we'll help you get back to your warm and toasty home this winter!
