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Energy Saving Tips for Winter

Consumers already struggling with debt will face additional hardships this winter. The U.S. Department of Energy predicts heating oil prices may go up nearly 30-percent and natural gas rates may increase more than 50 percent. Below are some tips to help you stay warm while counting your extra cash.

These tips, called Freedom Pointers, are submitted by consumers and offer ways to save money on a variety of topics including energy bills, grocery shopping, caring for pets and many others. Some tips include checking for and sealing drafts. According to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, the average household loses $150 worth of energy because of hidden drafts. To check for drafts, close exit doors and turn off the lights in the room. If outside light can be seen underneath the doors, seal the space with a door sweep. Rattling windows or doors can signify a draft that needs to be sealed as well.

Adjust your thermostat for cooler weather - During cooler, winter months, 36-percent of a household energy bill comes from heating the house. Heating bills increase by three percent for every degree the thermostat is set above 71-degrees. To keep utility bills "cool" and the house warm, keep thermostats at a comfortable 68-degrees.