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December
29
29
5 Ways to Lower Your Heating Bill
Cold weather is upon us, and with the furnace running more often, our heating bills are climbing. On a budget this year? Here are a few tips for lowering your heating bill, based on what our real estate agents see in the most energy-efficient Minneapolis homes for sale.
- Turn down the thermostat. One of the most simple ways to save money on your heating bill is to turn down the thermostat, especially when you don't need the house to stay warm. For instance, overnight and when you're at work are two times when you can turn the heat down and save some money. If you keep forgetting, you might invest in a programmable thermostat that will do it for you. Smart thermostats are also a popular feature we see in Saint Paul homes for sale.
- Get a tune-up. It might sound a little counterintuitive, but sometimes you have to spend a little money to save money. A furnace that works harder than it should is a furnace that's costing you! For instance, a dirty air filter or blocked vents can force the furnace to work harder to force air through. Have maintenance performed once a year to ensure your system runs at peak efficiency when the cold weather hits, heating your home with less effort and less energy.
- Locate any leaks. This is another example of when spending a little money can save you more down the road. If your home leaks heat to the outside, you could be spending more than you should to maintain your home's temperature. For instance, old windows, especially single-paned ones, can result in heat loss, as can gaps around window frames and doors and lack of adequate insulation. Finding these leaks and fixing them may save you a lot of money in the future.
- Make the most of your curtains. If you find your windows lose a lot of your home's heat, but you can't replace them at the moment, try investing in insulating curtains. This energy-friendly decor prevents heat from escaping through the window glass when it's cold outside. For bonus points, throw the curtains wide open when it's sunny and let the sun's natural heat warm your home, and then close them up when the direct sunlight goes away and the temperature starts to fall.
- Humidify your home. Using humidifiers isn't only about personal comfort and health. More humid air also has the benefit of feeling warmer. As a bonus, a humidifier is usually cheaper to run than a furnace, so keeping your home a little more humid will pay off in the long run.
As temperatures drop, it's time to get cozy! If you're in the market for a new, more energy-efficient home to call your own this winter, call today, and we'll help you find the perfect new home.