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Entry bubble More Ways to Save on Heating Bills

By: Jake | October 27, 2008 | Category: Home and Family

It was cold last week and it looks like we are in for more of the same, according to this National Weather Service chart. It's time to put away all the summer clothes, get the sweaters and jackets out and get ready to click that thermostat switch.

ThermostatI posted last month about how the Department of Energy's Energy Savers blog can give you a few tips on how to save on heating costs this winter. The folks who run the blog, the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Office, have also revamped their website with the theme "Stay Warm, Save Money."

Not only do they have detailed information on energy audits for apartments, homes and small businesses, but they have no cost and low cost tips on how to save energy (and therefore money) this winter. These tips are things you can do in the short term. These include letting the sun in during the day, covering drafty windows and turning the thermostat down when you are out of the house. The most intriguing suggestion to me is the idea about turning the water heater down to the "warm setting (120 F)." Not only could this save you money, but it'll save your hands from some scalding.

They also provide long-term investments for energy savings like installing a programmable thermostat or purchasing energy efficient appliances. These suggestions will make your wallet lighter, but not to worry, they link to ways you can find financial assistance for energy-saving improvements.

| View Comments [5] | envelope E-mail This Entry | Tags: energysavers.gov   heating_costs   heating_fuel   heating_tips   jake   power  

Comments (5):

blue comment bubble Posted by Gumby on October 27, 2008 at 04:05 PM EDT

I have an invention , but I dont feel that it will be accepted at Patents Office, anyhow. Anyway, I am using it as my home heater that runs entirely on sunlight. I can make it more sophiscated by adding automation to it, but it is too expensive. I am operating it manually. The cost of that depends on where you obtain materials that can be for free or bought at hardware stores. It is a simple concept that made me feel so smart !! I would like to get some modest financial rewards for sharing my idea. $50,000 would be nice. I can use the money and it will benefit many people who are struggling under the burdens of utility bills or backaches of chopping firewood..

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blue comment bubble Posted by Gumby on October 27, 2008 at 04:13 PM EDT

The sad truth to energy conservation is that everyone is not eager to reduce dependence on fossil fuel sources because it is a important base for tax revenues. If we develop free energy sources from wind or sun, we will stand to lose tax revenues from fossil fuel providers. My invention can reduce our dependence on fossil fuel by 20% or more, but it will means drastic reductions in tax revenues for government .. This is why I am not eager to share my simple invention for free... Once government realizes that it is not important to be preoccupied about tax revenues from dwindling fossil fuel demands, I will be happy to share my valuable concept for a modest financial reward. I am not trying to become a millionaire... All I need is $50,000 reward and some photo opportunites. I can be contacted at brettze@aol.com.

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blue comment bubble Posted by John on October 29, 2008 at 04:38 AM EDT

Thanks for all the tips and links FYI Regarding, programmable thermostats? I heard they can save ~10%. For those who still need help, I found this site which gave some ways and programs that help save on heating and utility bills. Help is provided both from the gov't and utility companies themselves. Anyone else have any good sites? Thanks
http://needhelppayingbills.com under electric bill help link

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blue comment bubble Posted by Jake on October 29, 2008 at 10:22 AM EDT

Thanks for the link John.

Gumby,
Unfortunately my friend, I don't have any spare $50K checks lying around. If I were you, I'd look into starting a business.

http://answers.usa.gov/cgi-bin/gsa_ict.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=8242

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blue comment bubble Posted by JM on October 29, 2008 at 12:25 PM EDT

I recently bought a programmable thermostat-- now I just need my fiance to install it! I'm looking forward to seeing what types of savings I'll get for my $89 purchase.

Another bonus I'll get out of this new thermostat is accessibility. Mine came with a remote control, which means I'll finally be able to adjust it myself (and not have to ask for help). And that can make a world of difference for someone with a disability!

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