Here are a few tips on preparing for
winter that will give you peace of mind, save a few dollars and help keep your
home and family warm and cozy.
Arrange for
Automatic Delivery From Your Full-Service Oil Heat Company
Automatic delivery means your oil heat
dealer puts you on a delivery schedule so you'll never run out of fuel during
the cold winter months. The dealer determines your schedule by looking at recent
temperatures, measured in heating degree-days, and at your historical fuel
consumption.
Consider a Price
Protection Plan
Many dealers now offer oil buying
plans that lock in or cap the price of oil for the entire heating season. If
there is volatility in world energy markets during the winter, these types of
programs can save you money. For tips on oil buying plans visit the state energy
office website.
Turn Down Your
Thermostat
You can save about 10 percent on your heating bills if you turn down your
thermostat by 10 degrees for eight hours a day. You can turn it down during the
day, while you're at work, or overnight, while you sleep.
Don't Block the
Heat
For hot water systems, move furniture
and draperies away from radiators so heat can enter your room and circulate
throughout the house.
Vacuum Warm Air
Registers
If you have a warm air heating system,
make sure you vacuum the air registers on a regular basis and make sure carpets
or furniture does not block them.
Let the Sun
Shine in
During the day, you can get the most warmth out the winter sun by opening the
shades, blinds or drapes on your south-facing windows.
Not Too Late to
Insulate
Insulate areas through which heat is
lost. Add insulation to your unfinished attic. Put insulation between the floor
joists and against the walls in your unfinished basement. Also, feel for air
leaks around windows, bathtubs, fireplaces and electrical outlets. Caulk small
leaks. Put plastic over old windows and begin budgeting the cost to replace such
windows.