Financial Fitness Challenge: 5 Tips to Save on Energy Costs this Winter
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Financial Fitness Challenge: 5 Tips to Save on Energy Costs this Winter

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October 21, 2015

Written by: Gina M. Sanchez Juarez, Financial Stability Manager at La Casa de Esperanza

Winter energy costs can create a significant burden for those of us who live in Wisconsin. On any given day you may have below zero temperatures or be climbing through several feet of snow. The long winter causes many families to have higher heating bills at a time when we are already struggling to afford extra holiday expenses. Here are some ways to save this winter.

5 Low Cost Energy Savings Tips 

  1. Insulate Your Home – Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors and siding with caulk and weather stripping. Doing this prevents loss of heat and improves comfort inside your home. Switch out your curtains and use insulated ones on your windows.  If you can’t afford to buy new curtains, layer fleece material behind your existing curtains or double your curtains to keep the cold from coming in through your windows.
  2. Update Your Thermostat – Install a programmable thermostat. It can be scheduled to adjust the temperature lower for when you go are at work and higher for when you are home. You will also want to program it to turn the heat down when you go to sleep and back up before you wake up.
  3. Schedule a Tune-up – Seasonal maintenance on your furnace can keep it running safely and efficiently, and save you money. Knowing it won’t break down during some of the coldest months will also give you piece of mind.
  4. Radiate More Heat – If your home or apartment has an old fashion radiator there are ways to maximize its efficiency. Start by dusting and getting rid of any visible debris on it. Next, put a layer of aluminum foil against the wall behind it. This will stop the heat from absorbing into the wall and radiate it back into your home. This is also a good time to move any large furniture you have away from your heating vents so that it can circulate properly around your home. 
  5. Don’t Heat Unused Rooms – Close doors on any rooms in your home you are not using. Closing off vents to these rooms keeps your heating bill lower, because you are not paying for heat that no one is using.

Need more help? Did you know only 35% of households who are eligible for Energy Assistance utilized this benefit in Southeastern Wisconsin last year? To see if you qualify contact 1-866-HEATWIS (432-8947). If you are eligible for Energy Assistance you can also take another step to save by contacting: La Casa de Esperanza to ask about eligibility for Weatherization. Households that also rent can apply for this benefit. For more information about Weatherization or to apply call 262-522-4111.

Resources: For more information on Money and Energy Savings Tips please contact We Energies at 1-800-242-9137 – 24 hours a day and ask for information on their 101 Ways to Save booklet or find resources here.

Source: We Energies

 

Gina Sanchez HeadshotAbout the Blogger
Gina M. Sanchez Juarez is the Financial Stability Manager at La Casa de Esperanza, in Waukesha, Wisconsin. The Financial Stability Initiative is a partnership between La Casa de Esperanza and the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County. Gina has all six certifications under the NeighborWorks Center for Homeownership Education and Counseling and operates under the National Industry Standards for Homeownership Education. She is a financial coach and educator working with individuals and families on obtaining tools for financial capability by meeting basic needs, building savings and gaining assets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of personal finances to positively impact the lives of others. 

 

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