Fall is fast approaching here in Central Massachusetts – which means the season’s first heating bill won’t be far behind. If you’re looking for ways to keep that bill as low as possible, here are some great ways to do it:
Free fixes
Program your thermostat – A programmable thermostat can help you save 10 percent on your heating bills, says the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Aim for a home temperature of 68 degrees for the best balance of comfort and energy efficiency when people are home.
Open the shades – Leave your curtains and blinds open during the day to absorb solar heat. Just make sure to close them at night to keep that heat in.
Turn down the (water) heat – The default setting of most water heater thermostats is 130 to 140 degrees; 120 degrees is enough for most hot water applications in your home.
Use a cold clothes wash cycle – Today’s detergents work equally well on cold and warm settings. Why bother to heat 30+ gallons of water per load when it’s not necessary?
Reverse your ceiling fan – Most ceiling fans are reversible with the flip of a switch; make sure yours is set to force rising warm air back downward into the room during the fall and winter.
Medium-cost fixes
Fix air leaks – Air leaks around doors and windows (and through walls, ceilings, and other cavities) can cause you to lose as much as 20 percent of the air you paid to heat. They will also force your furnace or boiler to overwork to keep you comfortable, which will lead to unnecessary wear and tear on your equipment. Caulking and weather sealing are cheap, effective ways to minimize air leaks.
Let your window treatments help you – Your curtains and blinds can have a big impact on your energy bills, so choose your window treatments wisely.
Replace your showerheads – Low-flow showerheads and aerators (the screw-on tip to your faucets) can cut your hot water usage in half without any noticeable difference in water pressure or comfort.
Add insulation – Most homes – especially older ones here in Massachusetts – are under-insulated. A one-time investment in proper insulation can cut your energy bills by up to 10 percent every year. Check out these DOE insulation tips and guidelines.
Replace single pane windows – If your budget allows, consider replacing single pane windows with Energy Star™ rated models. You’ll have fewer drafts, which will take some of the pressure off your gas furnace.
Replace older appliances – Most of today’s high efficiency home comfort equipment performs significantly better than older equipment – especially if that equipment hasn’t been properly maintained. If you’re replacing a 10-year-old system, your heating bill might drop 25 percent or more – enough to offset the investment in a new unit in just a few years.
Save money this fall and winter with a heating system upgrade, or a Service Plan for your heating oil- or propane-fired heating system! Contact us today to learn more, or to get a FREE, no obligation estimate on a new home heating system from Pioneer Oil and Propane!
