If you just purchased your own home, and money is currently tight with the addition of a mortgage payment to undertake, you will most likely want to take steps in trying to save cash whenever possible. The heating you use within your home is one area where you can take steps to minimize the amount you use in an attempt to save on energy costs. Here are a few tips you can use to keep your heating bill low when cooler temperatures arrive.

Take Care Of All Windows To Eliminate Draftiness

One of the areas of the home that contributes to excessive heating usage, is inadequate care of windows. If your windows are older, they may only have one pane of glass, which could let heat escape rather easily. If possible, swap out older panes of glass with newer, energy-efficient models.

Glass can be covered with shrinkable wrap during cooler temperatures in an attempt to maintain a constant temperature inside the home. This material is peeled from a paper backing and shrunk over the panes using a hair dryer. It provides a protective layer without losing the ability to look outside windows after its installation. Purchasing insulated window coverings will also be an effective measure in retaining heat. Take the time to check all window frames for drafts and fill voids with caulk to make it harder for cooler air to penetrate to the inside.

Consider Running Appliances During The Coolest Times 

Whenever an appliance is used in the home, it outputs heat. This can help minimize the frequency and duration your heating source will need to run. Instead of using your larger appliances during the warmest time of the day, consider holding off your chores until temperatures plummet. Running your washing machine, dryer, stove, or vacuum cleaner when temperatures are below freezing will help build up extra heat inside of your home. 

Maintain Your Heating Source For Maximum Efficiency

Caring for your furnace, wood stove, or fireplace effectively will make a huge difference in the amount of time you will need to use it to heat your home. Make an appointment in the autumn to have your main source of heating serviced by a professional. They will do an evaluation of the unit and determine whether it is in need of repair work to make it run more efficiently. Doing this before winter weather sets in will ensure you are able to schedule service at a time convenient to you rather than in a no-heat emergency situation. It will also give you time to pay for parts needed for repair work if necessary so your unit works at a time you need it most.