How to Safely Save Money On Your Heating Bill.

So, my roommates and I are always trying to minimalize our expenses, and when it comes to paying for a heating bill, we'd rather pay less.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• blankets
• long underwear
• electric space heater

1. If it isn't all that cold, do not use the heater. Endure the chill until it gets to be too cold, such as there being snow on the ground.

2. Obviously enduring the chill will require some supplemental layers. I prefer to wear a pair of long underwear underneath my jeans and shirts. If you don't want to wear the shirt, you of course can just go around with a few long sleeves or a couple sweatshirts.

3. Add blankets to your bed! And wear two pairs of socks. Remember you are saving money.

4. Make sure your windows are tightly closed. Hang sheets or blanks over some of your windows that might leak air. Though, don't cover all of your windows to the point where it's depressing inside, and allow the sunny side of the house to let the sun rays in.

5. If your house uses gas heat like mine, you'll want to go out and get some electric space heaters because electric heating is cheaper than gas.

6. When shopping for the electric heater, avoid open heat sources because they are (though only slightly) a bit more of a fire hazard. Go for the oil filled radiator heaters. Also avoid the little heaters with fans because you're paying for the fan to run, but the fan isn't producing any more heat.

7. 
   Safe and Warm!

   I use the Lakewood oil filled radiator, which has no open heat sources and will turn off if knocked over on its side. It was $45, but will save me money in the long run.

8. Finally close off the rooms you don't use: bathrooms, guest rooms, laundry room, etc. If you don't spend much time in there, don't waste money heating it.

Tips & Warnings

• When you do begin heating your home, be it gas or electric, try to keep it somewhat warm throughout the day, instead of letting it get really cold while you are away--it is generally accepted that this method does not save energy and money.
• Wash clothes in cold water.
• Keep the door to outside tightly closed and avoid opening it more than necessary.
• Avoid buying heaters with open heat sources which are typically less safe than closed heat sources like the radiators.
• Don't let the house get completely cold when you're gone as it will take a lot of power to heat it back up again.

Resources

• http://www.epinions.com/prices/Lakewood_6500_Oil_Filled_Electric_Radiator_Heater
• http://financialplan.about.com/od/savingmoney/a/HeatingCosts.htm

[deepthinkin]

on 12/24/2008 I really like the oil filled heaters too. They work great and have a vintage look to them! Thanks!

[kellydonovan]

on 11/9/2008 Great tips! Blessings!!!

[JesaLynn]

on 11/6/2008 Great tips, God knows we could all save a little extra cash anywhere we can. Huge 5!

[Miragi]

on 10/29/2008 Great advice. For the sockies, get some of those camper socks...they're really heavy and warm beyond belief. I wore those when I worked in the refridgerated room of the produce dept. I've also had experience of sleeping with zero heat in zero weather when our pilot light blew out and refused to be relit!! :D Le Brrr.

Also good for retaining heat: Cuddling! 5*