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How to Reduce Your Heating Bills This Winter
Andy Hunziker • February 13, 2017
We’re well into winter in Ames, Iowa, and you have received your first electric and gas bill from your first full month of using heat. With record low temperatures in Ames this past December, you may have been more inclined to increase the temperature of your apartment and were surprised by the number on your heating bill last month. To avoid expensive heating bills, follow our tips on how to reduce costs on your next month’s heating bill.
Use a Space Heater or Electric Blanket
If you have access to a space heater or electric blanket, use it while you are at home to keep yourself warm. Lowering the thermostat a couple of degrees and bundling up with a sweatshirt, space heater or electric blanket is an easy way to save some money on your next heating bill this winter in Ames.
Lower the Thermostat When Gone for Long Periods of Time
Whether you work 9-5 or if you have classes to attend at Iowa State University during the day, lowering your thermostat when you know you’re going to be gone for a couple of hours can save you money. Running your thermostat 10-15 degrees less during the day can save you up to 10% on your winter heating bills.
Install Thick Curtains
If your apartment landlord allows, install thick curtains to cover your bedroom and living room windows. A thick layer of fabric can trap the heat inside during cold winter days. Dark curtains with thermal lining are made to protect a home during harsh winters.
Inspect Windows & Doors for Air Movement
Patio doors and windows are primary culprits of letting cold air into your heated apartment. Be sure to inspect around the seals of your doors and windows for any cold air that might be coming in from outside. The heat in your apartment might also be escaping through window cracks and crevices.
Cover Windows with Window Film
Window-sealing kits that include double-sided tape and shrinkable plastic are available at most local hardware stores such as Lowes, Home Depot, and Menards. Follow these step-by-step instructions to install window film on your windows properly and keep the cold out!
Apply Weather Stripping
A V-strip or tension seal is suitable for the sides of a double-hung or sliding window or on the top and sides of a door. A V-strip weather strip is easy to install as it uses an adhesive. Apply easily around a door or window sash. Windows can open and shut even with the V-seal in place.
Cover Cracks with Caulk
Windows with cracks around window frames can be expected to allow cold air in and warm air to escape. Caulk is an inexpensive method to cover those cracks and keep your apartment warm while saving you money on your heating bills.
Maintenance at Hunziker Propert Management in Ames
Visit our maintenance information page
to view our guidelines during the winter months which cover your furnace, windows in the winter, and other miscellaneous maintenance guidelines. Hunziker’s prides itself on its excellent maintenance staff for being quick to respond and efficient in fixing the problem. If you are experiencing issues at your apartment today, just submit an online request
and our maintenance staff will be with you shortly!
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