How to Save Money on Heating Bills

One of the best examples of energy use is the home heating system. Heaters can add up to bigger portions in your electricity bill. In fact, statistical reports prove that heaters are one of the largest energy consumers in every home; that is, more than half of the consumption rate in a given year. For this reason, it is imperative to think of ways to save on heating systems in an effort to save money on energy consumption as well.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A desire to save money
• Time to inspect your home
• Possibly: insulation, weatherstripping, ect.

1. Inspect your home. To maximize your home’s heating system, it is best to inspect your house for any leakage. Leaks will let the heat seep out from your home, thus, absorbing cold from the outside. Most of the areas that are prone to leakage are around the windows, doors, and fireplaces. Once identified, it is best to take some proper actions as soon as possible in order to cut back any unnecessary costs on energy. This includes adding weather-stripping, caulking, or foam sealants.

2. Use heaters in frequently used rooms only. To save more energy, only use heaters in areas that are frequently visited and used by your household. For rooms that are not being used, shut the doors, turn off the heater, and close the floor or ceiling mounted registers and vents (central heat systems). By doing so, you can cut back your energy consumption through your furnace and heaters by as much as 50%.

3. Inspect your insulation. One of the biggest factors to maximize your home’s heating system is insulation. A properly and well insulated home can guarantee a comfortable living space without using too much energy. Thus, you can save more money by cutting back your energy consumption. If the amount of insulation in the attic is less than optimal, consider adding additional material. You can consult a contractor for the optimal density.

4. Get a good heating system. A defective heating system can use twice as much energy as one that is functioning properly. In addition, today's newer more efficient systems can save you thousands of dollars over a ten to fifteen year period. Have a trained professional inspect your system's efficiency.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on where you live, consider switching from electric to gas or vice versa. Electricity is less costly in some areas while in other areas gas is the better choice. Do your research for the area you live in and determine which better meets your needs.
• Solar heating, though costly to set up, can greatly reduce your costs over the long term.
• Always consult a professional when installing or upgrading your heating system.

[gscott]

on 1/16/2009 These are very helpful tips, especially checking for air leakage around doors and windows. This page has some other ways to help reduce heating costs http://blog.insweb.com/2009/01/high_home_energy_costs_sign_of.html

[savemoneycenter]

on 7/14/2008 As a General Manager of a Heating and Cooling company, this year more than ever, space heating and zoning off yur home will definately make a huge diference. Also, as Tommy mentioned, have a professional company replace old equipment, it will pay off in the long run! Great tips!