Five Energy Saving Tips for the Heating Season Ahead

Temperatures are dropping here in fast here in Long Island; before you know it we will be in the heart of heating season – and you will have the heating bills to prove it.

Want to keep those heating bills as low as possible? Here are five of the most cost-effective ways to do it (with thanks to the experts at the U.S. Department of Energy):

1. Weatherize – Air leaks force your heating system to overwork to keep you comfortable – which means you will pay more to heat your home and spend more on maintenance for your equipment, too. Inexpensive measures like caulk, weather sealing, and door sweeps are effective ways to keep warm air in and cold air out (you can read up on some air sealing basics on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) website).
2. Insulate – If you own an older home, it’s a pretty good bet that it is under-insulated. Investing in insulation could cut 5-10 percent of your heating and cooling bills – often enough to offset the cost of installation in just a year or two. Check out these DOE insulation tips and guidelines.
3. Program your thermostat – By properly setting your programmable thermostat, you can save 10 percent on your heating bills, says the DOE. Aim for a default heating system temperature of 68 degrees to balance comfort and energy efficiency when people are home; drop the temperature 8-10 degrees when they are not.
4. Use the sun to your advantage – Leave your curtains and blinds open during the day to absorb radiant heat from the sun – just make sure to close them at night to keep that precious heat in. Choosing better window treatments can help, too.
5. Maintain your heating equipment – Professional maintenance is the key to keeping your heating systems operating at peak efficiency month after month, year after year. Not only will routine preventive service lower your heating bills, it will also prolong the life of your equipment, prevent costly repairs, and even keep your equipment warrantees in force.

   The best way to get your heating equipment maintained? Sign up for a Southville Gold Service Plan. For one low fee of $125, you will get:

   • An annual cleaning and oil burner tune-up
   • Coverage for labor and replacements for nearly 50 parts
   • Free Automatic Delivery of your heating oil

We also have maintenance options available for your water heater, indirect water heater, additional heating units, and more. Contact us for details, or simply download this PDF brochure and order form.

Shave some dollars off your heating bills with a Southville Gold Service Plan. Contact us today to learn more!