This weekend may be the last to get ready for winter. So what do you do?
If you live in the north, your fuel bill ran approx. $977 last year and this
next year, it will go up to approx. $1182. A huge jump at a rate of 20%.
So what can you do to reduce this?
You can change out the filter in the furnace. Rule of thumb is to change it
out every 3 months. If you have a contract for your furnace, call and make an
appointment to have a tune up as well as change out the filter for you.
You can also drain about a quart of water from your water heater. It takes
about 10 minutes or less. Takes out a little bit of the rusty water, which
protects the bottom of the water heater from rusting out. Remember, this is
HOT water so take precautions when doing this. Lower the setting on the hot
water heater to 120 degrees if you have a dishwasher. If not, then you should
set it to how hot you like to take your showers. Every degree you lower the
water heater will save you from 1 – 3 percent on your fuel bill. Another
option is to purchase a water heater cover which will also save you money.
Replace your current thermostat with a programmable one. It will automatically
turn down your heating during the night while you are sleeping. It will reduce
the temperature by 10 degrees. Plug in an electric blanket and snuggle down for
the night. Make sure you get one that has the Energy Star Logo. This will also
get you a tax break.
Remember if you are replacing your appliances, look for the Energy Star Logo. At
tax time, you can get anywhere from $100 – $500 back for any of these improvements
to your home that saves energy.
While you are at it, check for air leaks around the house. Light a candle and
walk around and test the doors and windows. If the candlelight flickers then
you have a leak. Under the door, replace it with the under door brush, caulk
the windows and of course, weather stripping.
The clothes dry vent should be replaced with a self closure vent. This prevents
air escaping when not in use. You can get a tax credit for this as well.
Now you are set for the coming cold winter months.
