There are many steps you can take to help save money on home heating and energy costs this year. While keeping your family safe and warm is important, we understand this may need to be balanced with home heating costs.
The mission of Benefits.gov is to make it easier for citizens to access critical benefit and assistance program information. Browse the information below to find ways to save on heating costs this winter.
Check Your Eligibility for Government Assistance
This is a great first step to help you find government assistance you may be eligible to receive. Benefits.gov can help connect you to the right program through our Benefit Finder questionnaire. You will answer confidential questions about yourself, your family, and your situation to identify benefits you may be eligible to receive.
You can also browse the Housing and Public Utilities category on Benefits.gov to view programs such as the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Cut Home Energy Costs Yourself
Even with government assistance, the cost of heating your home during the winter can be high and cause financial strain. Here are a few tips and tricks from the U.S. Department of Energy to ensure your heating is running as efficiently as possible.
- Let the sun heat your home. By opening curtains and shades during sunlight hours, the sunshine will warm the home, lowering the stress on your heating system.
- Check your heating system and vents for dust or broken parts. Your system will have to work harder if there are issues. Keeping your system clean and working smoothly allows for the most efficient use of your heating system.
- Lower the temperature at night. While you want the house to be comfortable during the day, adding an extra blanket to your bed may allow you to lower the thermostat 10-15 degrees, cutting heating costs by up to 10% per year.
- Conserving hot water will not only help the environment but will also lower your energy bills. Shorten hot showers or wash dishes efficiently to lower your hot water energy bill each month.
- Seal any air duct leaks. An open duct can let hot air escape, making your heating system work even harder to keep the house warm. Seal up leaks yourself, or have a professional inspect and seal them, to save on the energy needed to heat your home.
Read More on How to Save on Energy Costs
Want to learn more about ways to lower your energy bills and save on the cost of heating your home? Check out our article on how to “Stay Warm and Save Energy” with helpful tips on saving costs. The U.S. Department of Energy’s article on “Fall and Winter Energy Saving Tips” can also help you plan for the winter months.
