Simple Ways to Keep Your Heating Costs Down

Looking for simple ways to keep your heating costs down this winter? Then consider these low-fuss strategies:

Dress warmly- Don’t push your thermostat up a degree or two every time you find you’re cold. Instead, add another layer to your clothing. Stock up on fleece pullovers, wool sweaters, thick socks and other cold weather staples, and then make use of them. If you are in the habit of walking around the house without shoes on, consider adding slippers or slipper socks to your list of must-haves.

Layer your bedding- Invest in a down comforter for your bed, or layer your bedding for maximum warmth while you sleep. Then, turn down the thermostat and enjoy the savings. If you have more to spend, consider adding down pillows and flannel sheets to your bed as well.

Stock up on blankets- Keep blankets handy in your living room, office and any other room of the house where you sit for an extended period of time. It’ll save you numerous trips to the thermostat.

Eat warm foods- Soups, stews and other cold weather foods are perfect for keeping the chill off. Compile a collection of cold weather recipes, and then rotate through them regularly. To keep warm between meals, be sure to keep plenty of coffee, cocoa and cider on hand. Often just the warmth of a mug is enough to warm you back up.

Make the most of your energy use- Many of our day-to-day activities require the use of electricity, but are you taking full advantage of your consumption? Consider these simple, stay warm ideas:

• Leave the oven open after you cook to take advantage of the heat that’s built up inside. (Note: This isn’t a good idea if you have young children or pets.)
• Wash and dry your bedding just before bed. Warm sheets will spare you the unpleasant experience of slipping into a cold bed.
• Save your dish washing for a time when you’re cold; the warm water will clean your dishes, while giving you a temperature boost.
• Do your computer work when you’re cold; computers give off a surprising amount of heat.

Stay busy- Moving around is a great way to keep warm, so grab your chore list and get to work. If you run out of tasks to keep you busy, give exercise a try.

Limit trips outdoors- You’re sure to have heard that grouping errands is a great way to save gas, but it’s also a great way to keep both you and your house warm. Limit your trips outdoors, and you’ll maintain a more steady temperature in your home.

Staying warm during the winter months doesn’t have to result in a huge heating bill. Employ a bit of practicality, and you’re sure to find lots of low or no cost ways to stay warm.

-Erin Huffstetler

Erin Huffstetler is a freelance writer specializing in frugal living tips and tricks. Her work has appeared in numerous print and electronic publications including Family Circle, Guideposts For Kids and Pregnancy. As the stay-at-home mom of two young kids, Erin is always looking for new ways to live better for less. For fun decorating and craft project ideas check out Erin's "Trash to Treasures" and "Bead Making Basics" courses at Suite101.com.