Energy Costs

Weathering the Seasons: Resources for Home Energy Assistance

Cutting Your Electric Bill: The Refrigerator 

Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit | Internal Revenue Service 

Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency | ENERGY STAR 

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to eligible households to help cover the costs of heating and cooling their homes. This program ensures recipients can afford and access needed services for a safe and comfortable living environment. 

Residential Clean Energy Credit

Home energy tax credits 

Save Energy. Save Money. And Save the Planet Too

Energy Saver/Dept of Energy 

7 Energy Saving Practices That Don't Save Energy 

Weatherization Assistance Program: The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, while ensuring health and safety. It is the nation’s single largest residential whole-house energy efficiency program. WAP has created an industry, producing new jobs and technologies, all while helping the most vulnerable families across the country.

Cutting Your Electric Bill: The Refrigerator 

Want to cut your energy bill and save on taxes at the same time? Greg Spears details the goodies on offer in 2022’s Inflation Reduction Act. 

Energy Saver: energy saving tips for consumers and homeowners from the Dept.of Energy

Air Duct Cleaning: What Should It Cost and Do I Need It?

The Home Service Clark Says You Should Actually Pre-Pay 

Weatherization and energy efficiency assistance: Weatherization and energy efficiency assistance programs help you improve your home to save money on heating and cooling costs.

 simple ways to cut the high cost of hot water.

Reduce Energy Bills by Hundreds Per Year

9 Steps to Keeping Heating and Cooling Costs Low 

 Approximate Energy Costs of Your Home Appliances 

Home energy savings tips 

Which Household Items Use Electricity Even When They’re Idle? 

5 Tips for Choosing the Best Trees for Your Yard 

Energy Efficient House Tour 

State Energy Offices and Organizations 

Energy Saver is the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) consumer resource on saving energy and using renewable energy technologies at home 

 Home Energy Audits: Measure Your Energy Costs and Add Up the Savings!)

Shopping for Light Bulbs

7 Bright Ideas for Saving Money on Light Bulbs

See How You Can Reduce Your Energy Use and Save Money : If you’ve been looking to lower your utility bills, there are steps you can take to reduce your energy use and save money. No matter the climate, the Department of Energy (DOE) has a wide range of resources that cover heating, cooling, water, and more. 

• Beating Energy Costs: Does Your Home Have Enough Insulation?

• How to Install a Programmable Thermostat for Lower Energy Bills

• Reduce Energy Bills by Hundreds Per Year

How to Install a Programmable Thermostat for Lower Energy Bills 

Saving Starts @ Home: The Inside Story on Conserving Energy. 

What are Zero Energy Homes? - Zero Energy Project

Kitchen Energy Efficiency Tips

5 Energy Saving Myths that Could Be Costing You

12 Energy-Saving Tips for Your Apartment

9 Energy-Efficient Home Improvements That Also Save You Money

Devices even though they were idle or turned off, they continuously consumed energy. 

Energy improvements worth your money 

Explore helpful tips to conserve energy and save money from Department of Energy

Reduce Energy Bills by Hundreds Per Year

9 Energy-Efficient Home Improvements Worth Your Money 

Approximate Energy Costs of Your Home Appliances

Unplug it! 5 things running up your power bill 

The Low-Income Housing Energy Assistance Program

5 Energy-Saving Myths that Could Be Costing You 

Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient 

MASS SAVE Marketplace : Explore our online marketplace for instant rebates on energy-saving products. 

Get Help with Your Home Energy Bill

24 Mistakes That Send Energy Bills Soaring

A Cost Savings Analysis For Home Energy Upgrades

32 Ways to Save Money on your Utility Bills

19 ways to lower your electricity, water and cable bills 

Easy ways to Save Energy at Home

How Much Does Electricity Cost Per Room of Your Home?

Slash your energy bill - 6 common power drains costing you money 

Shopping for the Lowest Electric Rates

Slash your energy bill - 6 common power drains costing you money 

How to Slash Your Electric Bill by $1,500 a Year in 3 Simple Steps

12 Energy Saving Tips for Your Apartment

24 Mistakes That Send Energy Bills Soaring

Pinpoint Your Home Energy Hogs and Replace Them with These

Homeowners can save hundreds of dollars per year on their energy bills. How? By using the Home Energy Saver website at http://HomeEnergySaver.lbl.gov

Visit www.dsireusa.org for federal, state and local programs that offer incentives for energy upgrades in your area. Also go to  www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/designing_remodeling

The Center for Alternative technology (www.cat.org.uk) presents practical solutions to environmental problems in a fun way.

Determine the approximate energy usage and cost of dozens of major electric appliances at www.wisconsinpublicservice.com/home/appcalc.asp

Energy efficiency programs can help control your energy costs and even permanently lower your electricity bill. MassSave offers eligible customers up to $1,500 in incentives for energy-saving measures in single family homes. To learn more, see www.masssave.com or call 1-800-632-8300.   You can also visit www.myenergystar.com for energy saving options and offers on ENERGY STAR products and you can see the Department of Energy website www.energysavers.gov.  

Air conditioning and heating can account for up to 60% of the average home’s energy use, followed by the water heater at 16%, the refrigerator at 12%, lights at 7%, and your TV and other electronics appliances after that, so those are logical places to start. The energy bill that Congress enacted in 2006 provides incentives potentially worth thousands of dollars to buy energy efficient appliances, upgrade of your heating and cooling systems, and use solar power. If you are buying a refrigerator choose a model with the Energy Star label. It will use 20% less if you are upgrading from a fridge that is 10 years or more years old. This will cut down on air pollution from power plants and will also shave 15% off your utility bill. Replacing all your appliances with energy star models could save you up to $2000 a year.

At www.hes.lbl.gov you can type your zip code then answer a few questions to find out how much cash you can save if you make your home more energy efficient. This home energy saver helps consumers find the best ways to save energy in their homes by evaluating your home energy use with customize results. This online calculator will help you do an audit yourself and it has been develop by several federal agencies.

For more information please visit:

US Department of Energy (www.energy.gov)

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy-US Dept. of Energy were you will find information, tips for renters and recommendations for how much insulation to use in your climate. (www.eere.energy.gov  )

Residential Energy Services Network www.natresnet.org

Energy Guide www.energyguide.com

Home improvements
The IRS has information to help taxpayers take advantage of potential tax benefits for home improvements. If taxpayers make qualified energy efficient improvements to their home after Jan. 1, 2023, they may qualify for a tax credit up to $3,200. They can claim the credit for improvements made through 2032.

These types of improvements include Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credits for things like water heaters, exterior windows and doors and heating and air conditioning installations. Residential Clean Energy Credits are available for taxpayers who install solar water heaters, fuel cells and battery storage or solar, wind and geothermal power generation. Taxpayers can visit the Home Energy Tax Credits page on IRS.gov to learn more.

More Information
How to claim these credits can be found in these step-by-step guides:

• Energy efficient home improvements

• Home energy audit

• Residential energy property

If you are unable to pay your electric bill, you may qualify to receive help from the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, which is administered by the Salvation Army. If you need help, contact the Salvation Army chapter office nearest you. Contact also the Federal Government who has assistance available for low income residents through the federal low income home energy assistance program and the Weatherization Assistance Program. Also contact your state’s public utility commission or consumer advocate with questions about assistance programs and options like budget billing.

Home Energy Assistance Programs (in Massachusetts)

QUOTES:

"If every American household replaced just one incandescent bulb with a LED bulb, the country would conserve enough energy to light 3 million homes and save more than $600 million annually. It would be as if 800,000 cars were taken off the road, according to a Web site maintained by the Energy Department and the Environmental Protection Agency, " reports Mufson.

For help in picking the best bulb for your needs go to www.energystar.gov .

No Motion? No Lights!:  We save money on our utility bill by installing motion sensors in our rooms. After 30 minutes, if no motion is detected, the lights turn off. Our kids had a bad habit of leaving every light on when they would leave for school in the mornings. This is no longer an issue. B. from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Timing Hot Water Savings:  One of the best ways we have found to save on electricity is to install a timer on our electric water heater. We only run the water heater for a few hours in the morning and another few in the evening. It has a manual override switch if you find yourself needing more hot water such as when company comes or everyone needs a shower in the middle of the day after you have run the dishwasher or a load of laundry on hot. It isn't very expensive and easy to install - it will pay for itself in just a few months. Dena from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Smart Savings: I bought a smart thermostat from my energy provider for half price and they paid for the installation. My total cost was $85 two years ago. The software was updated this summer. Though it was hotter than the previous summer, I spent much less on energy because the thermostat has a "savings" setting. It allows the thermostat to stay slightly above the set temperature to lower bills. I have saved at least $200 with this thermostat in the past two years, maybe more. The thermostat also has a geofence, so it knows if I am away and raises the temperature setting in the summer and lowers it in the winter. I can control it from my smartphone. The energy provider says I have a very low bill compared to other customers. Many would find the installation a DIY job. Barbara from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Do You Qualify for Special Electric Rates? If you use any kind of electrical medical device (like a CPAP machine or nebulizer), check with your electric company about a discount. In some places, they have a special rate for homes that have medically-necessary devices. There was an application form that my doctor had to sign. The rate was significantly lower and well worth the effort. Zoe from Dollar Stretcher Tips

TIPS:

Here are some ways to save energy during the hot summer weather:

1. Use your air conditioning less.

2. Install a programmable thermostat that will cool your home properly.

3. Install windows to retain conditioned air.

4. Insulate your home properly to not let cooler air escape.

5. Replace or clean your air filters regularly to reduce energy consumption in warmer months.

6. Raise the temperature on your thermostat. Setting your thermostat only 7-10 degrees warmer than you normally do can significantly help summer energy saving tips. You can either adjust the thermostat temperature on the wall unit, or if you have a smart thermostat, by the app on your smartphone. Set the thermostat to the highest temperature possible. Every degree of cooling increases energy use by 6% to 8%. Keep the house warmer than normal when away.

7. Use fans to cool your house. Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room. Remember that fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.

8. Heat food in your microwave. Avoid using large appliances like ovens, washing machines, and dryers. Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when the loads are full.

9. Use window coverings to prevent heat gain through your windows during the day. Close window shades and blinds and consider installing window treatments that can improve energy efficiency.

10. Find free AC in public places like  libraries, museums, movie theaters, and malls

11. Clean behind your dryer.

12. Skip the dryer altogether.

13. Switch to LED bulbs.

14. Use ceiling fans and add table fans around the home in occupied rooms.

15. Seal doors and windows by sealing cracks and openings with inexpensive weatherstripping and caulk to help keep cool air indoors and hotter air out

16. Let in cooler air at night.

17. Replace your old AC for a more energy-efficient one. Newer AC units have become increasingly more efficient at cooling the warm air they take in. By switching out your old unit for a newer one, you can save up to 30% on energy costs! Depending on how old your current system is can determine how much you will save. If you have an AC unit that’s over 10 years old, you have a potential savings of almost 50% of your energy costs!

18. Replace or clean your air filters regularly to reduce energy consumption in warmer months.

19. Ensure your fridge and freezers are fully closed.

20. Set the water heater at no more than 120 degrees to prevent scalding, conserve energy and save money.  Most house holds however set their heater to 140F. While this keeps showers and baths nice and toast, it will also keep you asking, why is electric bill high in summer? Having your water heater set at 140F can cost you upwards of an additional $36 – $61 on your annual energy bill in heating loss. That’s not including the additional cost of heating the water itself! 

21. Also consider taking cold showers. Water heating accounts for about 18% of home energy consumption

22. Don't leave lights on during the day. Turn off all non-essential lights and use energy efficient task lighting rather than overhead lights.

23. Don't place lamps or televisions near the air conditioner or thermostat, which can run for longer when sensing the heat from the appliances.

24. Turn off your air-con when you’re not in the room.

9 Ways To Stretch Your Savings As We Reach The Peak During The Summer Heat

Beat the Heat on a Budget: Frugal Tips for Preparing Your Home for Summer

Spring and Summer Energy-Saving Tips | Department of Energy 

Home Cooling (PDF) 

“10 Energy Saving Tips for Spring 

Keeping Cool Without Air Conditioning 

How to ‘Supercool’ Your Home (and Why You Should)

Fuel Economy in Hot Weather 

What’s the Best Setting for Your Thermostat During the Summer? 

25 Ways to Beat the High Cost of Cooling Your Home 

ways to help control the cost of cooling our home 

How To Save Money on Heating and Cooling Your Home

How To Cut Your Summer Energy Bills

8 Ways To Stay Cool Without Heating Up Your Energy Bill

Way Cool Savings: A Guide to Fans

Low Cost Cooling Options for the Frugal Homeowner

Best Setting for Your Central Air Conditioning

Tips for Staying Cool and Healthy in a Heat Wave

Summertime Kitchen Energy Efficiency Tips  

How Much Does It Cost to Cool Your Home?

Cheaper Summer Cooling for Apartment Dwellers

Cheaper Summer Cooling for Renters

9 Tips for Staying Cool Without Heating Up Your Energy Bill 

Smart Ways to Save on Summer Cooling Bills

Low Cost Cooling Options for the Frugal Homeowner | The Dollar Stretcher

 Perform Your Own Annual Air Conditioner Inspection

Good, Better, Best: Cutting Carbon From Home Heating and Cooling | Earth911.com

Can a New Air Conditioner Reduce Your Cooling Bills?

Summertime Kitchen Energy Efficiency Tips

9 Ways to Cool Down Air-condition Costs | Bankrate.com

How to Save Money on Air Conditioning … and Fun Tips to Stay Cool This SummerSummertime

How to Properly Size a Window Air Conditioner

9 Air Conditioning Alternatives

Energy-Saving Trees Did you know that the average homeowner can save up to 20 percent on energy bills by planting the right trees in the right place? That tree can also improve air quality, sequester carbon, help manage stormwater runoff, and more.

QUOTES:

Cooler Indoor Air: Don't forget the humidity factor of indoor air. When it is too moist, it can become unbearable. And a dehumidifier, even though it adds a bit of heat to the interior, can make it feel much better. That, added to moving air, can often replace the need for an air conditioner, which by its very nature also has the important task of removing excess moisture from the air it is conditioning. We lived for several years in an apartment without A/C that was made more comfortable with a small dehumidifier and circulating air fans. It made a huge difference! Jerry from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Instant Apartment Shade: I live in an apartment that gets direct sun from dawn to dusk. I've tried many things to help keep the place cool, but the most successful was buying auto foil-covered windshield screens that cost a few dollars each. They have foam insulation on one side and foil on the other. They lowered the indoor temperature by a whopping 10 degrees. I hang three vertically from the top of my patio doors and put the other two horizontally against the bottom. They come with elasticized loops for hanging and suction cups for attaching to windows. I hung others on the bedroom windows. They're the best at beating the heat.

Andie from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Stop That Summer Sun: Early morning or late afternoon sun streaming through our windows considerably heats up our home. I cut one of those Mylar thermal blankets to the size of our window and used painter's tape to tape it over the window. It reflects most of the heat back outside. I can pull the painter's tape off without damaging the frame. My house is 10 degrees cooler with the Mylar shades! You can usually find them for cheap on Amazon! Shelly from Dollar Stretcher Tips

More Minimizing Kitchen Energy Usage: Regarding the tip on summer oven usage, I do a lot of cooking—and making homemade breads!—for other people, so I use my oven quite a bit. Over the years, I have learned ways to minimize my energy usage and keep the house relatively cool. First, I try to plan ahead and double up the oven usage where possible. Some examples: Today I am making a batch of bread but will be timing it to follow up with some homemade Chex mix that will be for another gathering tomorrow. I look at my menu planning and make cookies or cake on the same day that I have roasted vegetables planned, even if those baked goods won’t be used until the next day or so. HL from Dollar Stretcher Tips

TIPS

• Insulate your windows: Use storm windows which create an airspace keeping cold out, Use plastic sheets or plexiglass on the inside. Hang thick blankets in front of windows during the night. Or make quilted window shades

• Open the curtains: let the sun in and it will keep the place heated until dark.

• Seal leaks: Check doors, windows, baseboards, pipes and places where pipes and wires come through walls . Check under kitchen cabinets. Also check switch plates. Use a candle to check the outside walls inside the home to find leaks.  Plug leaks with plaster, caulk or weather stripping. Check existing caulking and weather-stripping for gaps or cracks. Use Foam Gaskets for light switches and outlets. Other places to look for: appliance vents, electrical and plumbing fixtures, furnace ducts. Check the top of basement walls where the foundation meets the wood. Pay attention to windows, skylights, chimneys, vents and door frames. 

• Check furnace and ducts: make sure they are working properly and safely (no leaks). Clean air filters. Have a professional check it.

• Use a humidifier: moisture in the air makes room feel warmer

• Use a ceiling fan: the fan has a switch that if you flip it the fan will reverse direction forcing warm air across the ceiling and down the walls.

• Move your furniture: move it away from outside doors and windows. Don’t sit where the room is coldest.

• Use space heaters: only heat the space where you are. Follow instructions. Don’t burn the house. Keep children safe.

• Use electric blankets or heated mattress pad

• Use a programmable thermostat:  it will heat your home only when you are there. You can program it to heat certain parts of the house more than others. Keep it at 68 degrees and lower it when you are sleeping.

• Insulate water heater and pipes. Get a water heater blanket or jacket. Do not insulate: 1) Pre-insulated water heaters. These are newer units with factory-installed insulation of R-16 or better (check the manufacturer’s label) under the metal shell; 2) Water heaters located where the added heat is welcome; 3) Water heaters whose manual or paperwork warns against insulating; 4)Tankless (on-demand) water heaters.

• Lower the hot water temperature: Hot water heaters typically are set at 140 degrees. Lower the temperature on yours to 120 degrees for fuel savings

• Dress warmly: an extra sweater or layer can compensate for the slight decrease in temperature when adjusting your thermostat. Buy a warm pair of slippers. Use 100% silk shirts and blouses under your sweaters, cardigans, turtleneck shirts, etc.

• Keep hot drinks available during the day. Use a carafe and fill it up with coffee, hot cocoa, tea, hot water etc.

• Do layering: layer the window by adding thermal window shades and drapes. Add thermal liners to the curtains. Layer the floors by layering several area rugs (add a couple on top of each other using different sizes and in the same pattern and color family.  Use them  to fill a room with a sense of place). You can Google “layering rugs” so you can have an idea of what works and how it would look like.  Layer the bedroom with flannel sheets. Add a thick blanket or duvet. Place an additional folded  blanket, quilt or comforter at the bottom of the bed. In my house we use 2 comforters for each bed. Cover the walls (wall art) with quilts, blankets and tapestries. Use extra thick winter blankets to decorate living areas other than bedrooms: wrap yourself in them when reading or watching TV. 

• Close vents and doors in the rooms that you do not use in order to keep the heat in the areas that you do use. Use bathroom and kitchen vents sparingly or keep them closed to avoid losing heat thru those vents. 

• Use a wood stove or fireplace to heat the main room of your house and have everyone gather there. Add a propane fireplace for the main living areas. Make sure it uses batteries not electrical power for the “spark”. Should keep about 800 of a 1000 sq ft home warm enough.

• Harvest your own free firewood: check with your local national forest office for free or low cost permits that allow you to go and harvest your own firewood at no charge.

• Insulate your attic: Call an insulation contractor to come in and find where all the leaks are in your attic. Bring your insulation up to Dept. of Energy (DOE) -recommended levels where your energy assessment shows it’s needed.

•  Do a home energy audit: It will tell you how efficient your heating system is and where your home is wasting energy. Speak with utility companies: Some utility companies provide free energy efficiency audits. You also can check with your state or local government energy or weatherization office for recommendations, or visit energysavers.gov for more resources.

• Do a budget billing:  utility companies (your electric, natural gas companies, etc.) add up your bills for the last twelve months and divide the total by twelve to determine and charge you a fixed amount for your bill for the next twelve months. It is called a budget payment plan. 

• Do comparison shopping. If you use heating oil, shop around to make sure you’re getting a good price. If you live where you can choose your natural gas provider, do a comparison shop for gas prices. Ask for discounts. 

• Join an oil co-op: is a group of members large enough to purchase oil at wholesale prices. You will find oil co-ops listed under your state using any search engine.

• Ask for help: Check with the community.  Some communities offer programs where, if you are a senior citizen or qualify as low income, they will help you pay your utilities during the winter. Inquire at senior centers, community service agencies. Also ask family, friends and even ask neighbors using Nextdoor for recommendations. Check to see if you’re eligible for the Low Income Home Assistance Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

• Seek warm shelter: During the coldest days of winter, many communities provide “warming shelters” for those without heat to come in and warm up.

• Avoid utility scams: A call from your gas, electric, or water company threatening to immediately turn off your service is probably a scam.

Affordable Dry Winter Air Solutions

These Common Heating ‘Hacks’ Could Actually Cost You More Than Just Using Your Heating

Melt Away Energy Bill Shock This Winter: 10 Hot Tips 

10 Ways To Lower Your Heating Bill

Smart ways to save energy and money this winter 

Prepare now for winter weather.

Things Frugal Folks Do as the Weather Turns Cool

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP is a great option for those in need of assistance covering their energy bills. This program helps low-income households with heating and cooling energy costs, bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance, weatherization, and energy-related home repairs. Individuals and families already receiving benefits such as SNAP, SSI, or TANF may be automatically eligible.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): t’s no secret that the best way to lower energy costs is to reduce the amount of energy consumed. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps lower your energy bills by making your home more energy efficient. This program provides services to roughly 35,000 homes a year, saving these households an average of $372 annually through weatherization improvements and upgrades. The federally funded, state-run program requires applicants to meet specific income criteria. Preference is given to those over 60 years of age, individuals with disabilities, and families with children.

15 Winter Fuel Economy Tips To Make Gas Dollars Go Further

What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat To in the Winter?

 Fall and Winter Energy-Saving Tips

Choosing a Space Heater: The Best Job for the Least Money 

Minimize the Costs of Winter's Chill With These Home Prep Steps

Frugal Ways To Winterize an Apartment 

Winter Energy-Saving Ideas for Renters

12 Frugal Home Winterization Tips 

Fuel Economy in Cold Weather 

21 Ways to Slash Your Electric Bill This Year

Are Hot Water Heater Blankets Worth the Cost?

5 DIY Draft Dodgers for Cutting Energy Costs

Set Your Thermostat to This Exact Temp and Save Money on Heating Now 

12 Best Ways to Heat a Garage in the Winter 

Choosing a Space Heater: The Best Job for the Least Money

16 Ways to Warm Up a Cold Room 

10 Ways To Lower Your Heating Bill 

Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults 

At What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat in the Winter?

Follow these CR-approved smart moves to cut heating costs this winter and still stay cozy warm.

Creative Winter Layering for Lowering Heating Costs

What’s That Little Switch On My Ceiling Fan? And How Can It Save Me Money?

How To Prepare Your Furnace for Winter

Humidifiers & Vaporizers: Inexpensive Investments in Health and Comfort

 save on winter heating costs

a calculator that shows how much money you can save by turning down the thermostat.

How To Save Money on Heating and Cooling Your Home

10 Ways To Lower Heating Bills

Frugal Ways To Winterize an Apartment 

Home Energy Assessments 

Check to see if you’re eligible for the Low Income Home Assistance Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). 

How to save money on utilities this winter and avoid scams 

Spot and avoid home-related fraud this winter

Do-It-Yourself Savings Project: Using Caulk to Seal Air Ducts 

Gearing Up for Winter: Tips for Weatherizing Your Home 

12 Ways to Keep Warm for Less This Winter

Weatherstripping 

Insulation 

What To Know When You’re Buying Home Insulation 

 purchasing a window insulation film kit 

Add some weather stripping 

11 Ways To Prepare Your Family for Cold and Flu Season

Is This the Best Billing Method to Save on Your Heating Costs This Winter?

Keeping Cold Winter Air Outside and Heating Bills Low 

8 Easy Ways to Cut Your Home Heating Costs

What To Know When You’re Buying Home Insulation 

A Handy Checklist to Help Keep Your Winter Heating Bill Low

The Revenge of the Hot Water Bottle - LOW-TECH MAGAZINE 

Here are some more tips on thermostat settings.

7 Easy Ways To Lower Your Heating Bill 

Flooring Trend: Layered Area Rugs 

Creative Winter Layering for Lowering Heating Costs 

12 Frugal Home Winterization Tips

Choosing a Space Heater: The Best Job for the Least Money

12 Ways to Keep Warm for Less This Winter

Winter Energy-Saving Ideas for Renters

How to save money heating your home this winter

At What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat in the Winter? 

Preparing for Winter Weather 

What You Can Do Now To Fight Energy Costs This Winter

Tips for Saving on Home Energy Costs this Winter

Staying Warm with Government Assistance

What to Do if You Can’t Afford to Keep the Heat on This Winter 

Minimize the Costs of Winter's Chill With These Home Prep Steps.

How to Insulate an Attic for Lower Energy Bills will show you how to tell if you have enough insulation and, if not, what you can do about it before all that heat you're paying for ends up leaving your comfy abode.

5 Places to Find Free Firewood

Things Frugal Folks Do as the Weather Turns Cool

16 Low-Cost Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter

if your home is a little older, you might be wondering if your furnace is up to the job. Or if it's energy efficient. The last thing you want is for your furnace to die in the middle of a cold snap! Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace? 

Get Your Home Ready for Winter 

8 Easy Ways to Cut Your Home Heating Costs 

How To Save Money on Heating... and Other Wacky Ideas to Stay Warm 

Good, Better, Best: Cutting Carbon From Home Heating and Cooling | Earth911.com

Harvest trees for firewood

Guide to Greener Heating: Your Best and Cheapest Home Heating Options

All About Geothermal Heating Systems and How They Save Energy

How to Prepare Your Furnace for Winter 

Prepare for winter weather emergencies while avoiding scams

You can reduce heat loss through windows by covering them with plastic window film or insulating window inserts such as those available at www.windowtherm.com. Buy double or triple-pane models designated energy star with a low “E” coating. To find out what to buy for your climate zone, see the window map at www.energystar.gov and visit www.efficientwindows.org for tips on choosing energy efficient windows.

Thermal coverings are a convenient way to add insulation right were you need it most… your drafty windows. Rooms will feel cozier throughout the year protecting you from the summer heat and the winter cold by letting you adjust the thermostat to save on energy costs. Buy them and look for more information on JCPenney energy solutions at www.jcp.com/energysolutions

The federally funded Fuel Assistance program helps income-eligible families pay their energy bills. Payments vary depending on household income, household composition and heating fuel costs in relation to income. If your household receives public assistance (Aid for families with Dependent Children or Home Relief), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) of food stamps, you are probably eligible for these benefits. Households not receiving public assistance may be eligible for benefits if the gross monthly household income is at or below income guidelines. Your local Community Action Program agency determines eligibility. To find your local agency, visit www.energybucks.com or call 1-800-322-3223. Also call the toll free “Heatline” at 1-800-632-8175 or on the internet at www.mass.gov/dhcd for a complete list of fuel assistance agencies. If you go online click on “Community Services and then “Heating Assistance”.

 If you are unable to afford your heating costs, weatherization or energy-related home repairs, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help.

OIL CO-OPS

If you got oil heat, joining a oil co-op (a group of members large enough to purchase oil at wholesale prices) can cut your heating costs by $300 a year. You will find oil co-ops listed under “oil” in your phone book. Most are open to any local resident and may charge an annual membership fee as little as $5. If you fill up your furnace in the spring you may get an even cheaper discount because of the “off season”.

Oil cooperatives (co-op) can save members money on their oil and other services. They may also offer discounts to low-income customers. Many co-ops offer discount membership fees for senior citizens.

Below are some coops operating in Massachusetts:

Cape & Islands Self-Reliance Corporation (heating oil on the Cape and the Islands)

Citizen's Oil Co-op (propane and heating oil in Southern Massachusetts towns bordering CT)

Co-op Power (heating oil in Western Mass: Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties)

The Fuel Club (heating oil and propane out of NH check for availability in MA)

Green Energy Consumer Alliance (formerly Mass Energy-serving most of Massachusetts)

Quotes:

A Frugal Foot Warmer:  During a season as a professional bellringer for the Salvation Army, I discovered that wearing two socks with a plastic bag (bread wrappers are ideal) on each foot keeps feet warmer. I didn't believe it, so one day I wore the bread wrapper between socks on one foot and just the two socks on the other. It definitely made a difference! Martha from Dollar Stretcher Tips

" down on those heating bills:  Unless you’re lucky enough to be living in a place like California or Florida, many apartments can be pretty drafty in the winter. It’s estimated that lowering the thermostat at your place by just a single degree can reduce your heating bill by as much as 2%. The US Dept of Energy recommends a continuous comfortable winter setting of 68 F, which suggests that those who are willing to bundle up and tolerate an extremely strict setting at 55 F can save almost 25%. As a more reasonable alternative, try running a continuous low-temperature (55-60 F) while you sleep — or turn off the heat altogether. This is especially doable if you invest in a good quality electric blanket or heated mattress pad. The typical fleece and micro-plush electric blankets consume roughly 50 watts of power at the mid-range setting; in terms of electricity costs, that translates to just 5 cents per night — and heating pads are even more efficient." Len Penzo dot Com

Keeping Warm for Less

In the winter, I put two velour throws between the bed sheets and sleep between the throws. It feels wonderful!

Lala

More Winter Prep Tips:  In addition to taking my winter clothing out, I add a few more things:I condition my boots and make sure that the soles are in good shape. I use boot spikes and they are very inexpensive. You can use petroleum jelly to condition boots, and for less than $10, I can get a tin that lasts a long time. And by taking care of my boots, they have lasted a long time.

• I layer my clothes all year long, so I'm usually quite comfortable. I also wash or air my quilts and blankets outside and they smell good for a long time in the winter.

• I make sure that I have clean new filters in my furnace. I live in a well-maintained mobile home and this year, I hired a reliable plumber to do my heat tape, check the skirting and insulation.

• I make sure that I have blankets, cat litter and an old rug in my car. I have changed the oil and winterized my car myself. My tires are in good shape.

• I make my "winter bed" with flannel and fleece, as well as a duvet. I've brought all my winter bedding to the front of the closet and put the summer sheets away.

• I've started stockpiling my pantry and freezer and making those comfort foods that we crave when it's cold out. In my area, once the snow flies, it takes a day or two for the snow plows to come out. I've had the power go out, so I make sure that the BBQ is handy in a corner that I know the wind or snow won't get to it. I've been known to be boiling water for coffee, chocolate or tea and BBQ-ing outside when there isn't any power. The neighbors have been known to wander over once they smell it and I don't mind sharing a hot meal!

• When my husband was alive, he was a long haul truck driver and taught me another trick. If worse gets to worse, there are ingenious cooking items that can be plugged into a cigarette lighter or inverter and most truck stops sell them. One that I loved looked like a black lunch pail. It had two shelves and I was able to cook a roast and vegetables in it! I made gravy with the coffee pot and we had a delicious meal and roast beef sandwiches the next day.

I'm not eager for winter, but I can make it more enjoyable by being prepared. I also have my reading list and books, puzzles, coloring supplies, some good chocolate and snacks as well!

Karen K. from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Make Your Home Feel Warmer:  To make your home 'feel' warmer when the thermostat is turned down, keep some steam going. Whether it be a humidifier or just a big pot of water turned on med/low on the stove. The humidity in the air makes it feel much more comfortable. L. from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Using a tension rod, I hung a bed sheet between our entryway and living room. What an improvement! The temperature differential is at least fifteen degrees between the entry and the living room. We no longer watch our heating dollars fly out the door. M. from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Keep Your Home Warm and Wallet Safe :

Winter brings lower temperatures and can raise energy costs as people keep their homes warm. Scammers know about this and often try to take advantage of unsuspecting people. Explore this list from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to get help identifying winter weather scammers. Common scams include:

• Calling and saying you are behind on your bill. They urge you to pay right away by purchasing a gift card or wiring money to avoid service disruption.

• Coming directly to your door and saying they need to repair or replace equipment. Then, they demand payment on the spot.

• Requesting personal information after a scammer claims you overpaid your bill

Winter Wear at the Ready:  My kids are continuously misplacing their winter hat and gloves. At a dollar store, I bought the small laundry bags that are white and zip. They have a loop on them. I hang a bag on each hanger with our winter coats. I place the scarf and gloves and earmuffs that belong with that coat inside. When it is time to wear the coat, we have all the extras there. We no longer have to hunt for the missing glove. This works well for each member of the family. Nancy from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Thrifty Layering for Winter-Time Warmth: Look around your favorite thrift shop for 100% silk shirts/blouses. You might pay a little more than you would for cotton or polyester, but they will reward you when you wear them under sweaters, cardigans, turtleneck shirts, etc. because they are a very good under-layer with cold weather clothing. If the care tags are missing, try the Internet for information on keeping silk clothing clean and in good condition. Bonny

Winter "Snuggle Bags":  After my parents divorced, our family had to tighten our belts in every area, including heating during the cold months. We found that the sleeping bags we had but seldom used made comfortable, warm "snuggle bags" for reading, watching television, playing board games, etc. Finding additional uses for things one already owns is a great way to stretch those dollars. Bonny

Keeping the Thermostat and Heating Bills Low: We're retired, but we don't want to downsize. We love our spacious home, but a spacious home can mean big heating bills. Therefore, we purchased a room heater for our family room and bedroom. Those are the two most used rooms in the house. During the winter, we set our central heat at about 60 degrees (or even 55 at night). The family room heater is on during the day and the bedroom one is on at night. Our bills are tiny for a big home! Trina

Staying Warm for Less in a Cold Apartment: Despite living in an apartment sandwiched between two other floors, keeping my apartment heated in winter is challenging. The walls and the windows lack good insulation, so the floors, bed, closets, etc. are very cold, especially at night. Unfortunately, there isn't much I can do about it. I used to wake up freezing in the middle of the night and have to pry myself out of bed into the cold to crank up the heat. This past winter, I bought a heated mattress pad. Mine has 20 settings and a preheat button, and it automatically times out after 10 hours. It only heats the area where something is on top of it, so the energy isn't wasted. This allowed me to keep my thermostat relatively low and still stay warm all night. And I paid about $20 less on my monthly power bill than the years before. It was a great investment. Lynda from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Extra Layers, Extra Warmth: My grandmother used to pile on the quilts and blankets on the bed when it got cold. Even in her drafty old house, we stayed warm. I've found that using comforters, quilts, blankets and/or duvets will keep me warm and comfortable without having to rely on an electric blanket. You could even use a sleeping bag on the bed. Having several layers traps my body heat and keeps me warm. And I don't have to worry about the electricity going off in another winter storm power failure. LB from Dollar Stretcher Tips

Estimate Solar Energy Potential by Using Google Earth 

Can Growth in Sustainable Energy Reduce Natural Resources Overspend?

Should I Rent My Roof To a Solar Panel Company for Income?

Clean Choice Energy: Switch to 100% clean, renewable energy in just a few minutes. CleanChoice Energy offers a variety of clean energy products for homeowners and renters. With our clean electricity product, you can choose us as your electricity supplier to ensure all the electricity you use in your home is replenished on the power grid with 100% clean wind and solar energy. With community solar, you can subscribe to a local solar farm that produces solar energy on your behalf—while saving money on your electricity bill. Enter your zip code to see which products are currently available in your area and learn more about which product is right for you.

SOLAR POWER:

BOOK: Install Your Own Solar Panels: Designing and Installing a Photovoltaic System to Power Your Home 

Recommended websites for information on solar power:

www.dsireusa.org  which spells out rebates, loans and other incentives available in each state for all renewable energy categories and for energy conservation; www.homepower.com which includes a directory of renewable energy dealers and installers; www.nabcep.org which helps find certified

solar installers listed with the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners; www.pvwatts.org determines how much power a PV system will produce at your location and lists local utility electric rates; through  www.dcpower-systems.com  you can locate a solar installer who can give you a price quote on a building integrated solar project.

Solar for Homes EnergySage saved us time and money! "EnergySage helps take the guesswork out of going solar. The EnergySage Marketplace is truly a one-stop shop to research and shop for solar.

The 19 Best Solar Powered Generators For Home Use Reviewed (2022

Portable Solar Energy Systems for Home & On the Go

Solar Calculator: Estimate Solar Savings | EnergySage https://www.energysage.com/solar/calculator/  Use this solar panel calculator to quickly estimate your solar potential and savings by address. Estimates are based on your roof, electricity bill, and actual offers in your area.

Get competing solar quotes online | EnergySage https://www.energysage.com

3 Things To Consider Before You Get Solar Panels

WIND POWER:

Installing and Maintaining a Small Wind Electric System

Small Wind Electric Systems | Department of Energy

The Best Vertical Wind Turbines for 2022 - Clean Energy Summit

GEOTHERMAL POWER:

Geothermal heating - Wikipedia

Is Geothermal heating worth it for Homes? What goes Wrong?

Geothermal Heating and Cooling Technologies | US EPA

Hydropower For Home (Ultimate Guide) - 2022 - Surge Accelerator: Power ...

HYDRO POWER (WATER):

Microhydropower Systems | Department of Energy

Micro Hydro Power For Off Grid Houses. Small ... - Solar Energy Website