Fuel Assistance | Home Energy Assistance

As energy costs has risen this year, many families are looking for ways at keeping winter costs lower. While major construction and adjustments might give you the ability to have a large impact upon your energy costs, at this point in year time and costs are of the essence. Thus, in order to get your heating bills down for less, you should consider the following tips:

Consistent Thermostat Temperatures

Constantly adjusting your thermostat can increase your heating costs by as much as 1/3 due to the extra demands it places on your system. As a result, pick a steady, reasonable temperature that you keep throughout the day and add a sweater when it gets chilly.

Keep your Doors Closed

To help insulate your home, you should try and keep your doors - from front doors to side and garage doors - closed whenever possible. If you are expecting company, welcome them in without letting excessive heat escape. Additionally, try to close the door to rooms that aren’t in use, which can help concentrate the heat in the areas that are in use. Open your south-facing curtains and drapes during the day when there is sun out to let in external solar heat as well.

Use Moderate Heat When Leaving

If you’re planning a trip or vacation, set your thermostat to a lower, reasonable temperature in the 60s while you’re gone - if you keep it at normal temperatures, then you’ll waste on costs but if you turn it off, then you may increase the costs of bringing your home back to normal.

Check Your Water Heater

Make sure your water heater isn’t set too high - temperatures around 120 degrees are effective for most homes - to save on money.