Tips to Lower Your Heating Bill Throughout the Winter

Your heating bill typically takes 40% of the utility bills and is likely to increase during winter. This expense is because people prefer to stay indoors and enjoy the heater’s warmth than go out in the cold. However, you can stay warm without making your bill too high. You can lower your heating expenses and formulate a plan to keep warm without necessarily consuming too much energy. Discussed below are some ideas on how to achieve this goal in your home.

• Set your thermostat lower
There are times when much heat is not necessary for the house, such as at bedtime or when you leave for work. It is therefore paramount to consider lowering your thermostat setting to about 63 degrees Fahrenheit in these instances. Decreasing the room temperature by ten degrees can reduce your heating expenses by about 10% annually.

• Shutting out rooms that are not in use
This tip will work for people with relatively big homes that have extra bedrooms or other spaces not frequently used. You can seal up those rooms by putting a towel at the base of the door to avoid warm air from seeping through or allowing cold air. However, do not let the rooms be below forty degrees, especially those with water pipes fitted along the walls.

• Closing up windows and doors
Vents and air spaces usually allow unrestricted airflow, but they are a source of cold air during winter. Always lock up the windows and check if they have gaps that can bring in a cold breeze. You can place a towel or mat at the base of the door to seal up the space between the door and the floor. By so doing, you will have reduced heat loss from your rooms, reducing the amount of heating you need for your home.

• Bundle up
The most effective way of keeping warm is by adding the layers of clothes you wear. Sweaters, jackets, and socks are critical in the winter season. Instead of turning the heat up, you can add the clothes you wear and still feel warm the same way. You should also add an extra blanket or comforter to your bed to keep you warm so that you can turn the thermostat down while you sleep.

• Use the sun’s heat energy
Even without using solar panels, you can make use of the heat from the sun. During the day, it’s advisable you open your curtains to allow sunlight into your house. In the evenings, you could close your curtains or blinds to give an extra layer of insulation against heat loss.

• Make home-cooked meals
Preparing your meals at home will not only keep you from spending a lot in the hotels, but it also provides additional heat from the oven and stove. It is, therefore, a good idea to make your soups, meals, and hot drinks at home so that you enjoy fresh meals and lower heating bills.

People need to stay warm during winter, but it is also critical to take advantage of available resources to keep you from paying higher than what you need. Keep your home warm in an affordable way.

You can always contact Swail’s Heating & Cooling for all your HVAC needs.