Combat rising heating coststhis winter

As we continue to see a rise in the cost of natural gas through the winter, it is not too late to find ways to save money on your heating bill.

· Check your attic insulation; if less than 6 inches, add more.
· Check your wall insulation; if there is no insulation, add some.
· Insulate basement/crawlspace walls.
· Set your thermostat to 68 degrees. You can set it back even lower at night or when you are not at home. Generally, you can save approximately 3 percent on your heating bill for every degree you set back your thermostat.
· Check the furnace filter monthly and change if it is dirty.
· Keep all heat registers and air ducts clear from obstructions.
· Have your heating system checked and tuned-up if needed.
· Inspect ductwork for damage, duct tape failure or disconnected ducts.
· Have your chimney checked for blockage.
· Make sure your attic accesses are insulated and weather-stripped.
· Replace damaged weather-stripping on doors and windows.
· Close fireplace dampers when the fireplace is not in use.
· Set your water heater thermostat to \"warm\" or 120 degrees, unless you have a dishwasher without a pre-heater.
· Seal drafty windows with plastic.
· Close the doors and vents in rooms that are seldom used.
· Minimize ventilation and leave the bathroom door open during a shower to steam heat the house.

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