It's getting chilly outside. Is your home ready for the frigid winter months? With energy costs at an all-time high, savings can be accumulated by making simple upgrades to your residence ... some with little to no cost.According to the U.S. Department of Energy, reducing drafts in your home can lower your energy costs from 5 to 30 percent.
We've compiled the ways you can save this winter from Consumer Reports:
Upgrade insulation
Insulation is important in order to keep the cost of heating your home down. Bob Markovich, home and yard editor of Consumer Reports writes, "According to our recent nationally representative survey, of more than 2,000 Americans, only 12 percent added or upgraded their home's insulation in the past three years and just five percent had insulated their heating and cooling duct work -- quick fixes that save you money for years to come."
So what should you do? Fix your insulation! If it's not time for new insulation, seal the cracks and duct work. This is a simple task that can save you big. Spend $500 once, and save $400 a year.
Buy a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat can save you 20 percent off your heating costs. This thermostat lowers the heat by five to 10 degrees during the day when no one is home.
Fix the drips in your faucet
A leaky faucet is guaranteed to cost you more money than you thought on your water bill. A Consumer Reports article states "Almost four in five states anticipate water shortages by 2013, which could lead to steeper rates and penalties for excessive water use." Stopping the leak is the easiest way to save $70 per household a year.
Buy energy-saving bulbs
Purchase a compact fluorescent bulb to save money on your electricity. Consumer Reports recommends a variety of CFLs that range in price from $6 for a four-pack to $13 for a two-pack. Each life of a CFL bulb will save you $56. Again, a CFL bulb is worth the investment.
