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The temperatures around the Ohio Valley are starting to slide from crisp to downright chilly as the months creep from fall to winter. Households have started turning on their furnaces and many of us are doing so with our heart rates rising. We know a hotter furnace will lead to a skinnier wallet due to escalating heating costs.
The United States Energy Information Administration says heating costs are on the rise. Residential propane is costing 21 cents a gallon more year over year. Residential heating oil is at $2.59 more a gallon year over year.
We can't freeze ourselves solid, but we don't want heating costs to eat even more away from our household budgets. So what's the key to staying warm and not going broke? The U.S. Energy Department has a few suggestions.
First is an easy one --turn down your thermostat. According to the Department of Energy, every degree you lower the temperature, you save 3% on your bill. The department suggests setting the thermostat to 68 degrees during the day. When you're away during the day or asleep, drop it back 5 to 10 more degrees to save 15-20% on your bill.
Seal the drafts around your house. Use caulk, weatherstripping, or spray foam around windows, doors, and electrical outlets to stop cold air leaks. Close curtains or use heavy drapes around drafty windows at night to keep heat from escaping.
Heating your home will still be pretty expensive, but these tips might keep it from ruining your household budget.