Are you already sweating just thinking about your oil, electric, or gas bills in the next coming months? Keeping a house heated is a huge expense here in New England! So, I thought I'd list a few ideas I have discovered for cutting these costs a bit.

• Install Digital Thermostats if possible. For a better value, install programmable ones. These are easy to install and can make a HUGE difference in heating a house. If your house has multi heating zones, these are great! At night turn the downstairs thermostat down, and program it to kick in right before you get up.
• Turn your water temperature down to 125 degrees. As this produces water to the set temperature whether you are using it or not, lowering it a few degrees just makes sense.
• Have your furnaced tuned up. Call your utitlity company to find out how.
• Make sure all drafts are covered. Insulate windows, put draft guards on the bottom of doors, make sure the basement is airtight.
• Do not block radiators or heating vents with furniture. This will prevent the heat you are paying dearly for, from flowing freely.

Here are a few other ideas to help you keep warm this winter, without spending a fortune!

• Always wear layers
• Use lined slippers while inside
• keep fleece or knitted throws throughout the house
• Run items like the washing machine and dishwasher at off peak times. Sometimes you will qualify for lower utility rates by doing this. Check with your utility company.
• Check your house's insulation
• Make sure your furnace is properly maintained

Hopefully some of these suggestions are helpful to you. Have a cup of tea, curl up under one of thows throws, and enjoy the season!