• strict warning: Non-static method Pagination::getInstance() should not be called statically in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 307.
  • strict warning: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 307.
  • strict warning: Non-static method Pagination::getInstance() should not be called statically in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 410.
  • strict warning: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 410.
  • strict warning: Non-static method Pagination::getInstance() should not be called statically in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 344.
  • strict warning: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 344.

DO IT YOURSELF

Energy Conservation: Heating 2011/07/15

Let’s start with some really easy ones. First up, wrap your hot water heater with a thermal insulating blanket. These usually run about $15 and will save, on average, $8.35 per month – so in two months, you’ve made your money back and then some! They’re fairly easy to install, too, and shouldn’t require a professional unless you’re inexperienced with DIY work or if you have an unrealistically complex water heating system. A word of warning: You should cut out space to allow the labels on the water heater to show, as manufacturers usually void their warranty if the label is ever obscured. You also should turn your water heater down to 120 degrees; you usually won’t notice any difference at all, yet it will cut back your heating bill by around 1-3%. On a similar note, you should also cover any exposed hot water pipes with split Styrofoam pipe insulation. It’ll only cost you around $10-20, and it’ll save you a few dollars each month year-round – cost vs. savings, this is another great one.

Installing a “smart” thermostat can also help a lot. If you’re good at remembering to turn down your thermostat before work and at night, then you shouldn’t need this – it just helps automate your thermostat levels. According to the ACEEE (American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy), you save approximately 3% on your energy bill for every 1 degree you set back your thermostat. If you can (on average) cut your thermostat back 10 degrees each month, you’ll definitely notice the difference.

I’m sure it’s going to sound redundant, but insulate everything. Big garage doors? Install Styrofoam panels to save an easy 1-3%, depending on how often you use your garage and how it’s set up with your house. If you have a crawlspace, insulate the floor above it, even if the outside of the crawlspace is already insulated. Is there a gap at the bottom of your house’s siding where it meets the foundation? Insulate it! Stuff some fiberglass insulation into the space. Install foam padding underneath switch and plug covers to cut back on drafts; only costs around $10 and it’s just you and a screwdriver. If you can’t afford storm windows, buy plastic sheets to put over any window where you don’t need a crystal-clear view during the cold season. This will prevent drafts and also stop any annoying window rattling.

To put a cherry on top, grab a caulk gun and various types of insulation and then wait for a windy day. Light a stick of incense and hold it up to any cracks/joints/etc in the parts of your house that always seem to feel drafty. Using the line of smoke as a guide, caulk and insulate anything you find. It’s hard to quantify how much this will save you, as each house is different, but it’s a fairly simple and effective way to keep your house a little warmer.

If you’ve managed to follow all the advice in this article, your next heating bill could be as low as 1/10th what it was in previous months. If you have a house you plan on staying in for at least 3 years, or if you just happen to live in a cold place and your heating bill is eating up your paychecks, these tips will significantly decrease your bill and will make the investment of time and money very, very worthwhile.

view counter