Image: federico stevanin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
If you’re like most Canadians, the spike in utility costs that comes with the winter cold, combined with the rising prices of heating the home, probably inspires you, year after year, to see if you can’t cut back on those costs a bit. When it comes to minimizing your heating costs, efficiency is the name of the game. Here are some quick tips that can help you keep those costs under control.
• Turn down the heat.
It goes without saying that the easiest way to save on your heating costs is to turn down your thermostat as much as possible. Dress warmly in the house, and don’t forget warm socks or slippers over cold floors. You wouldn’t wear shorts outside in the winter, so why wear them inside? By keeping yourself comfortable around the house (think cozy blankets when you’re stationary, like sitting in front of the TV), you might be able to squeeze by on slightly less heating than you previously thought possible.
• Set the thermostat.
Most thermostat can be adjusted to set temperatures at various times during the day; a programmable thermostat can take as much as 20 per cent off your heating bill. If yours is an older model, make a habit of adjusting it once in the morning and once in the evening. Try 21°C when you’re home and awake, 18°C when you’re asleep, and 15°C when you’re not home
• Open the curtains.
When the sun is shining, open your curtains to allow some of that solar energy to heat your house. Up to 25 per cent of your home’s heat can be lost through the windows, though, so consider insulating them with plastic film which can reduce heat loss by as much as 50 percent.
• Make it airtight.
Seal all windows and doorframes, as well as baseboards, electrical outlets and ducting. Close your fireplace when it’s not in use. Close the door to unused and unheated rooms, like a guest room, as well as hallways or stairs, to concentrate the heat in the rooms you’re using.
Many small steps to reduce your heating bill add up to big savings over time. Carefully ensure that you are using your heat as efficiently as possible, so that none is wasted, and you will soon see a difference on those heating bills.
Nelson Goulart
Broker of Record with Signature Service GMAC Real Estate
www.infomarketgroup.com
