Staying Cool About Heating Costs

Staying Cool About Heating Costs
How small investments can equate to large savings on your utility bills.

As temperatures fall and winter gets into full swing, keeping your home or condo warm without emptying your wallet can be a challenge. Hiked utility bills being the last thing many people want to see, here are a few tips to help keep your home cozy on a budget. First, check all the windows, doors and outlets for draft-prone areas and respond to those areas by sealing with caulk or silicone and installing draft guards under doors (all available at Home Depot). This can save an estimated 10% annually on cooling and heating costs. Next, install a programmable thermostat to allow the system to be shut off automatically when not needed, such as mid-day when most of the household is at work or school. This can save an additional 10% on energy bills and pay for itself within the first year. The same can be said for solar window film which helps keep harmful UV rays out while acting as additional insulation. Lastly, while you are home, light a few candles. Although they do not provide a large amount of heat they will help warm a moderately sized room while adding coziness. Take advantage, as these small investments will equate to large savings over the course of the winter and the year to come.