Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — As the temperatures begin falling, the price you pay to heat your home starts rising. On average, nearly half of all residential energy consumption in the U.S. is contributed to heating costs and 85 percent of adults report that their utility costs have gone up in recent years. But there are many easy things you can do to help save money on your heating bill. And good news, they’re all free.
But keeping the cold outdoors comes at a cost. In fact, it’s projected Americans will spend nearly 30 percent more on utilities this winter than five years ago.
The Department of Energy says to save money, start by adjusting the thermostat. By lowering your furnace from 70 degrees to 68 degrees you can reduce heating costs by approximately five percent. For even greater savings, consider setting your thermostat to 63 degrees while you’re away. This could result in up to 10 percent annual savings on your heating bill.
Did you know about 30 percent of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. If drafty, hang insulated curtains to keep the cold out and close curtains or blinds at night.
Fun fact, not all fireplaces will save you money on heating bills. Electric fireplaces are the most energy-efficient, converting 99 percent of energy into heat. Gas fireplaces converts 77 percent of energy. However, wood-burning fireplaces convert only 15 to 30 percent of energy.
Also, save money when you shower. Reducing your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees, down from the typical 140 can save you up to 11 percent in water heating costs; cutting shower time in half can save up to 33 percent. Helping you keep cozy inside this winter.
Here’s an easy one, ceiling fans can help keep rooms warmer. Reversing the motor so it spins clockwise at a low-speed forces warm air from the ceiling back down into the room.
Contributors to this news report include: Lindsay Dailey, Producer; Bob Walko
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Sources:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/states-impacted-rising-heating-costs/
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/programmable-thermostats
https://www.energy.gov/articles/5-tips-help-you-save-energy-bills-winter
https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/saving/how-to-lower-heating-bill
https://www.pricetocompare.com/blog/how-to-save-on-heating-bills/
