Cut Winter Heating Costs

Now is the optimum time to start thinking about preparing your home for winter. Here are some things you can do:

Take advantage of heat that’s there anyway. There are plenty of activities you do around the house that generate warmth, such as cooking a meal or taking a shower. When you shower, keep the bathroom door open so steam spreads to other rooms, and don’t turn a ventilation fan on; it will rapidly remove the warm air you’re hoping to keep around.

Lower your thermostat. You likely won’t notice a huge difference if you turn it down just a few degrees, a move that can shave 5 to 10 percent off of your heating bill. It’s especially wise to turn down the heat whenever you leave your home for several hours.

Consider a programmable thermostat. They cost between $30 and $100, but that’s money you’re sure to make back over the course of a year due to your heating bills being reduced. A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the heat on a predetermined schedule, so you can lower the heat when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping.

Watch that water heater. It’s also not likely to be noticeable if you turn down the thermostat on your water heater to a recommended 120 degrees from about 140 degrees.  Consider installing an insulating water heater jacket. Be careful to follow manufacturer's recommendations and don't cover the thermostat.

Don’t let heat escape unnecessarily. Keep your doors and windows shut when the heat is on. If your home has a fireplace that you aren’t using, be sure the flue is closed and glass doors are in place to minimize heat loss.

Call for a checkup. Proper maintenance will help your heating unit run more efficiently. Electric and oil heaters should get professional attention at least once a year and gas heaters every other year. Also, here’s a step you can take all on your own: Remember to check the filters in your heating system and make sure they’re clean and clear. Dirty filters lead to higher heating costs.

Keep windows covered when it’s dark outside. This will help you reduce heat loss and keep cold air at bay, especially if you have older windows. Be sure to let in the light during the daytime — those rays of sun will help heat your home.

Explore outside. Check the exterior of your heating unit. Avoid stacking anything against the heat pump or draping anything over it. Hose the outside unit down to clear it of dirt, leaves and grass clippings. If your indoor unit appears to have excess water around it, see whether the condensate drain and pan are blocked.

Check and replace weather stripping on doors and windows.

Air leaks around faulty weather stripping on doors and windows contribute to making interior spaces of your home uncomfortable and increase heating costs. Check for drafts and repair or replace worn stripping.