Ways to lower your monthly heating costs as winter moves in

As Pennsylvania braces for the coldest months of the year, consumers are looking for ways to manage their heating bills.

Channel 11 consumer advisor Clark Howard emphasizes the importance of addressing drafts and leaks in homes.

“You can weatherstrip, you can caulk, and yeah. You use a caulk gun a lot, you’re gonna be really sore the next day, but your wallet’s gonna not be sore at all,” said Clark.

Weatherstripping and caulking can save 20% off the average heating bill, which translates to a monthly savings of $30 for a typical Pittsburgh home, according to the EPA and EnergyStar.

Homeowners can further reduce heating costs by using draft dodgers or rolled towels against door bottoms, potentially cutting costs by another 20%.

Window wrapping kits are available at local hardware stores for about $5, and using a blow dryer to shrink wrap windows can save about $20 per window.

Installing a smart thermostat, which costs around $75, allows homeowners to program their heating schedules, offering about 8% savings on heating and cooling bills, or $50 a year for the average home.

Clark Howard also recommends zone heating, where homeowners turn down the thermostat and use portable heaters to warm specific areas, reducing costs associated with heating unused rooms.

Howard notes that many homes lack sufficient attic insulation, which can significantly impact heating efficiency. He advises hiring professionals for insulation installation due to the complexity of the task.

By implementing these energy-saving measures, Pennsylvania residents can mitigate the impact of rising utility rates and stay warm during the winter months.

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