Keep Your Home Warm With Tips From the Experts

Save Money & Maximize Your Comfort

Northern Vermont has had its fair share of deep freezes and storms this winter—some piling on more than 18in of snow at their worst! So, no matter what some groundhog says, spring rarely comes early here. On top of that, supply chain issues and geopolitics delivered higher fuel prices, making it uncomfortable to crank up the heat as much as you might like to.

These tips can help you keep warm and comfortable in your home this winter, while keeping heating costs more under control.

1. Use your programable thermostat like a pro. When used correctly, a programmable thermostat can help you lower your heating costs by 10% or more. To maximize your savings, set the thermostat for 68° when you’re at home and awake—and layer up with your favorite sweater. Lower the temperature setting by 10° for the hours you’re asleep or out of the house.
2. Turn down your water heater. Most water heaters have a default setting of 140° which is not only dangerous, but also inefficient. Reducing the temperature setting to 120° will meet all your hot water needs and save as much as 10% in heating costs. When you consider that heating water—for bathing, dishwashing, laundry and more—accounts for close to 20% of your heating costs, you may want to talk to us about upgrading your water heater to a high-efficiency model that can help you save even further.
3. Eliminate drafts. Unless you live in a brand-new home, it’s likely that as much as a third of the air in your home escapes via drafts around windows and doors. That’s like throwing money out the window—or door. A weekend of DIY projects, like sealing up drafts with caulking, weatherstripping and expanding foam, can help save you 20% or more on heating costs going forward.
4. Go solar. We’re not talking about expensive solar panels. We’re talking about free heat from the sun. Leaving curtains and blinds open during the day lets the sun warm your rooms. Closing them at night helps keep the heat in. It can warm your rooms enough that you can lower your thermostat and use your boiler or furnace less.
5. Change your filter. A dirty air filter can restrict air flow, making your system work harder to heat your home—which uses more fuel and increases bills as a result. Because the filter protects your heating equipment from dirt and dust, it also helps prevent problems that can lead to a breakdown—and an expensive repair.
6. Reverse ceiling fans. Switch the direction of your ceiling fan in winter and run it at a low speed. The blades will gently push warm air that rises toward the ceiling back down toward floor level.
7. It’s the humidity. In summer, we all know the humidity can make the air feel oppressive and warmer than it is. In winter, when running your heating system makes the air in your home feel dry, adding humidity via a humidifier can make it feel more comfortable, and just enough warmer that you can lower the thermostat a tad.
8. Cook and bake. In summer, grilling outside and using the microwave are smart ways to keep cool in the kitchen. In winter, simmering a stew all afternoon adds actual warmth—and a cozy vibe! After you bake a batch of cookies, turn the oven off but leave the door open to spread the warmth. But NEVER use your oven or stove as a supplemental heat source.

We Can Help You Save!

We’re always looking for ways to help you keep costs under control—including payment options you can sign up for in the fall to help you keep propane and heating oil costs manageable. You can also find help from Vermont’s Seasonal Fuel Assistance program. And if you are having trouble with your bills, let us know. We’ll work with you in any way that we can.

Founded in 1947 as a true mom-and-pop shop working right out of their home, Jack F. Corse Inc. has grown over the years. Now in our third generation, we are a reliable supplier of propane, heating oil, kerosene, diesel, gasoline and motor fuel to residents and businesses in Northern Vermont. Ensure your comfort to Corse Fuels this season—and countless seasons beyond!