Stay warm and save money

It's chilly out there.

As we gear up for winter, it’s time to think about energy.

Heating represents up to 60% of the average home’s energy expenses in the cold season. While there’s nothing a homeowner can do about gas and electric prices (Idaho's are still below average compared to other states), there are other ways to save energy and money.

Avista offers these low-cost or no-cost tips to manage energy costs in cold weather:

1. Check airflow to make sure door sweeps are in good condition. Caulking around windows and doors will help prevent cold air from seeping in underneath. If you feel cool air under a closed exterior door, as a temporary measure place a rolled towel at the base.

2. Lower the thermostat. Optimal efficiency for a thermostat is 68 degrees when you’re home (on wet days especially that can feel admittedly chilly). At least reduce the temperature at night — you won’t notice while sleeping under warm blankets — and when away from home.

3. Furnace filters should be replaced every month or two, or when dirty, to maintain proper airflow and operate efficiently.

4. Restrict wood fireplace use to extremely cold weather and close the flue damper when not in use. Fireplaces tend to work against heating systems. As the warm air leaves, cold outdoor air gets sucked back in, making the furnace work extra hard to reheat it. The added stress can increase heating bills and result in more frequent furnace repairs.

5. Use space heaters properly — only in small, occupied areas for short periods — and always turn them off for safety when not in the room. They’re not meant to be a main heat source and can be more costly to operate anyway.

6. If you have baseboard heaters, practice “zone heating” by turning down the heat in unused rooms and closing the door. Baseboard coils should be vacuumed to remove dust buildup and improve heat transfer.

7. Turn off unneeded kitchen or bathroom fans. In just one hour, these fans can rid a houseful of warm air.

8. If you're cold, start by adding a sweater and extra blanket to stay warm rather than adjusting the thermostat right away.

9. If you plan holiday travel, don’t waste energy and money. Turn down the thermostat and water heater and shut off lights except those needed for security.

See more energy-saving advice, DIY tips and more at myavista.com/winterbill.

“I’m not going back outside until the temperature is above my age.” — unknown

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Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Email: Sholeh@cdapress.com