Posted On: December 19, 2016 by Exchange Bank of Northeast Missouri in: Budgeting Personal Finances Save Money
Winter doesn’t just bring the joy of the season, but the associated bills along with it. If you’ve found your pocketbook being stretched a little thin this time of year, you’re not alone. With the cost of utilities, food, and extra spending peaking throughout the winter months, it’s no wonder many go into debt around the holidays. See how you can avoid this common dilemma by taking these simple measures to save money around your home this season:
Install a New HVAC Air Filter. Surprisingly, your furnace may be working overtime this December simply because its filter is full. Along with keeping consistent temperatures, a fresh air filter every 1-2 months can help your HVAC run as efficiently as possible, saving you valuable utility dollars.
Cover Exterior Openings. Have a draft in the house, or windows that don’t seem to seal completely? A big energy saver is to close those holes within your home, or section them off to an unheated room. By not allowing additional cold air into your home, you can ensure that your heat isn’t battling against the cold fronts outside.
Keep Moderately Warm. If you haven’t already invested in a programmable thermostat, we recommend you do so straight away! This valuable tool lets you set the temperature for times when you’re typically in the home, and other times where you may be at work. By keeping the interior warm, but not too warm, you can ensure that no pipes freeze, and your energy bill doesn’t skyrocket as soon as the cold hits.
If You Have It, Use It. There are a variety of ways to conserve energy throughout the winter. If your home boasts a functional fireplace, enjoy the glow of a toasty fire and lower your heat for a few hours. Additionally, if you enjoy being curled up under warm blankets, you can continue to keep your home’s temperature a tad lower, saving additional funds.
Exchange Bank of Northeast Missouri
Member FDIC
Equal Housing Lender