Conserving Energy and Keeping Winter Bills Down
Keeping your home or apartment heated during the winter can
drive your energy and heating bills sky-high. If you’re already living paycheck
to paycheck, paying for extra utilities is something you may not be able to
afford. Have no fear – we’ve got four tips that can help keep your heating bill
under control.
Use Blankets at Night
One of the best ways to keep your utility bill manageable is
to turn the heat down during the night. At night, you can pile blankets on your
bed and dress warmly before you go to sleep. That way, you’ll stay warm, even
though your thermostat is turned down to conserve energy. If you can’t face
getting out of the covers into the cold in the morning, set your thermostat to
automatically turn on around the time that you wake up. By bundling up before
bed and turning the heat down, you’ll keep your utility bill within your
budget.
Turn Your Fan On
We know, turning your fan on during the winter seems
completely counterintuitive. However, if you turn your fan on counterclockwise,
it makes perfect, money-saving sense. Heated air rises to the ceilings and top
floors of your home, leaving you with lots of wasted energy and driving your
heating bill way up. When you turn your ceiling fans on counterclockwise, they
drive the warm air back down into the room, keeping the temperature of your
home steady so your thermostat doesn’t kick on. It’s a great way to save money
on your heating bill.
Take Advantage of the
Oven
During the winter months, people tend to bake more often and
cook more hearty meals in the oven. Since you’re using the energy to heat the
oven, why not take advantage of it? After your meal is cooked, leave the oven
cracked so the extra heat warms the room. That way, you’re not using double the
energy to cook and keep your home heated. Your utilit7 bill will stay
comfortably on-budget. Just be sure you’re safe and the oven is off before you
leave it cracked.
Do you have north or south facing windows? You’re in luck!
Depending on which direction your windows face, open your blinds or curtains in
the evening or morning hours. The sun will stream in and warm your home
naturally, helping you save money because your thermostat isn’t doing any
work. If the sun warms your home in the
morning, you’ll have more heat during the day. If it comes in during the
evening, you may be able to turn your thermostat even lower at night.
If you’ve gotten creative with these techniques and your
heating and utility bills are still more than you can afford, CreditBox is here. Just fill out our
quick, easy, and confidential online
application and have the extra cash you need before your bills are due.