Baby, it’s cold outside… Tips to reduce your heating bill this winter

Every year, I vow to dress warmer so I can save money on my heat bill. Shortly after this vow, I throw caution to the wind, prepared to sell a kidney if I must, and turn my heat up to a balmy 72. I am a summer baby, and the northeast winters are not for me. Sadly, many families across the region struggle with the same dilemma every year. And this year promises to be especially tough on the wallet.

The bad news

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects that U.S. consumers can expect to pay up to 28% more to heat their homes this winter than last year due to rising fuel costs and slightly colder weather.

Nearly half of U.S. households rely on natural gas for heat, with the average winter heating cost expected to rise to $931, up by 28% from last year, EIA said. Electricity is the primary heating source for about 40% of homes. It is more expensive than gas at an estimated $1,359 per household this winter – but that is just a 10% increase from last winter.

Less than 12 million homes rely on heating oil or propane – about 9% of the roughly 130 million U.S. households – but those fuels will remain the most expensive sources of heat this winter with cost increases of 27% to $2,354 for heating oil and 5% to $1,668 for propane.

Unfortunately, the biggest concentration of homes that rely on oil is in the Northeast. I am sure you or someone you know is struggling with the price of oil to heat their home.

What can you do about it?

While upgrading your furnace and windows will work wonders for your heating bills, the people most worried about the upcoming heating season likely don’t have the budget for major home improvements. So, let’s look at some affordable options to take some of the bite out of those heating bills.

  • Windows – Make sure all your windows are locked. Open shades and blinds during the day to let the sun shine in and provide additional warmth. Close them at night to block any drafts or chill. Consider covering windows with plastic for extra insulation, especially in older homes.
  • Doors – Invest in a twin door draft stopper. Seal up any pet doors for the season. Installing a storm door can also reduce drafts.
  • Thermostats – A programmable thermostat allows you to lower temperatures when the house is empty or at night, saving energy.
  • Dodge the draft – Perform a draft test and seal any gaps, cracks, or holes in doors, windows, vents, and outlets.
  • Other tips – Close the fireplace damper when not in use, keep furniture clear of vents, and service your furnace for optimal efficiency.

Some of my additional favorite ways to stay warm are snuggling under an electric blanket, cuddling with my cats, and sipping a nice mug of hot cocoa.