Winter has a double bite – as the temperature goes down, heating costs rise. Families with home heating systems can use alternative methods to warm up and regulate their heating systems to save money, says Katie Cobb, White County extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
One way to save money on home heating costs is by setting the thermostat a little lower than normal – about 68 degrees during winter. Setting the thermostat comfortably low and dressing warmly can have a similar effect without turning up the thermostat, says Cobb.
"Wear a sweater to help keep you warm," she advises.
As with any home appliance, a home heating system should have regular checks and maintenance done to ensure it's working properly. Check and replace the dust filters inside the house once a month and have a technician clean and check the home heating system every year, Cobb recommends.
A malfunctioning system could cost extra money while performing poorly.
It may also help to install a programmable thermostat. These use pre-set times to heat or cool a room to the desired temperature. Most systems can hold six or more settings and can be manually overridden without changing any daily schedules, says Cobb. Look for the most energy-efficient models.
While at work or on an extended trip away from home, try setting the thermostat down about 10 to 15 degrees. "If you turn the thermostat back for at least eight hours a day, you can save approximately 10 percent on your heating bills," says Cobb.
Natural sunlight will also help warm the room, making the heater work less.
It's a common misconception that a home heating system works harder to bring a room to the desired temperature after it's been set back, says Cobb. The U.S. Department of Energy has disproven this myth with years of research and numerous studies.
Make sure the home is properly insulated to ensure that as little heat as possible is lost through the ceiling and walls. Seal gaps around pipes, duct work, and chimneys.
Most houses have sufficient insulation installed when the house was built. Older homes, however, may not have been held to the same standard. "If you have an older home, have an inspector check the insulation," says Cobb.
For more information on energy-efficient home heating, contact your county Extension office or visit the Cooperative Extension Service web site. The Cooperative Extension Service is a part of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
