Getting the most out of your furnace

The winter months come with various expenses. Your paycheck flies toward holiday gifts, food and travel faster than you thought possible. Don't let your heating bill get you down this winter. Follow these tips to get the most out of your furnace and save a little money for those more entertaining purchases this season:  

Weatherstripping

The tiny gaps around your windows and doors allow heat to escape and cold air to trickle into your home. Sealing that space with weatherstripping will help you lower your heating expenses.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you should measure the perimeter of all windows and doors and account for an extra 5-10 percent before purchasing weatherstripping. Decide which type of weatherstripping you will purchase based on your unique needs. There are a variety of options available. If you want durability for multiple years and a more visually appealing look, invest in metal weatherstripping. If you would like a less-expensive option that still stands up to moisture and is durable, consider buying a vinyl product. 

Portable heater

Purchasing a portable heater and turning down your furnace is another way to slim your heating bill. If you and your family are all in one room, the portable equipment will provide warmth while the rest of the house cools. 

When selecting a product, choose one with a low wattage to also save money on your electric bill. 

Attic and window insulation

Attics don't always have enough insulation. Heat rises, and if your highest floor isn't insulated well enough, you will lose a great deal of heat through the roof. Conduct a home inspection and evaluate the situation in your attic and add insulation if necessary. 

Don't throw your money out the window. Those glass panes may lose almost 10 times more heat than a standard insulated wall, according to the State Government of Victoria. Apply plastic film over windows to keep more heat in your home or consider hanging curtains or drapes. Insulating windows is crucial when you're trying to save on your heating bill. 

You can also prevent convection currents by installing pelmets, or cornice boards, above your windows.

Programmable thermostat 
Keep your heat lower during the day when no one is home by installing a programmable thermostat. Additionally, you can automatically reduce the thermostat at night while everyone is asleep. This change to your home will reduce your bill by cutting down your energy usage when you need it least.