Six Ways to Shrink the Heating Bill

Six Ways to Shrink the Heating Bill

 

In the middle of the winter season and with the cost of natural gas and oil still far above historic norms, here are six basic steps that could save you big on heating bills.

 

Most are cheap and easy, although a couple require a significant financial outlay and professional installation. Either way, the tips below, outlined by the Alliance to Save Energy, will help go easier on the environment, strengthen the nation's energy security and save you money.  

• Clean your furnace filter

This could be as easy as cleaning the lint from your dryer, says ASE spokeswoman Ronnie Kweller. Or it could entail running to the store for a $10 replacement, she says.

 

Although hard to quantify, Kweller says your furnace will struggle less, and hence will be more efficient, if it doesn't have to push hot air through a clogged filter.   Also, she recommends getting the furnace tuned up at least once a year by a professional to further boost efficiency.

 

Find out about other ways to shrink your heating bill…

 

Tell us what you think.  Know any other good ideas for cutting down on the high cost of heating a home?