7 Energy Saving Tips To Help Your Budget Survive The Coming Winter

Fall is here and winter is well on the way. Much of the northern part of the country is stocking up on firewood and getting ready to settle in for the duration.

While many of us not face a harsh winter this year, it is definitely a change that you need to be ready for.

Below are just a few small tips that can help you save big bucks this winter:

1. Insulation is everything

Having proper Insulation in your attic can save you up to 20% off your heating bill.  But it’s not just your attic that needs insulation. Insulating your hot water tank and exposed hot water pipes can also contribute to a nice savings. Plus, turning your water heat down to 120’ instead of the normal 140’ that installers set it to, can save on heating cost as water heating accounts for between 14%-25% of your total energy consumed.

2. Block out the breeze

Having an open and airy home is what most hire an interior designer for… But when you have an actual breeze blowing through your home, you have a real problem on your hands.

Owning energy efficient doors and windows can save a lot too. Older windows/doors might have air leaks, either from their age or the fact that they were not installed right.  Replacing all your old doors and windows can save you up to 10% – 40% off your heating bill depending upon your specific scenario.  But doors are expensive, so If you’re unable to replace a door you could always use a long doorstop as a temporary quick fix or install door weather-stripping to help with the breeze under the door. Caulk can help with other leaks around your windows and doors.

3. Speaking of a breeze

Almost all ceiling fans have a switch that you can flip that will change the direction that your fan spins. This will reverse the airflow so that, instead of cooling the air, it actually heats up the house by fanning up towards the warm air and forcing it back down. So you can save some $$$ on your heating by this very simple change. Just be sure that you give your fan a good dusting before you do this… It made a mess last year for me.

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