5 ways to cushion the blow from rising heating costs

Turning up the heat is expected to cost even more this winter.

Temperatures are dropping, but fuel costs are rising. For the 2022-23 winter heating season, the National Energy Assistance Directors’ Association projects that heating costs will average $1,202 per household. That’s up 17% from last year and 35% from two years ago.

Natural gas, which heats nearly half of all U.S. homes, is forecast to spike more than 34%. Other heating fuels are expected to rise sharply as well: Propane up 15%, heating oil up 13%, electricity up 7%.¹

The high energy prices are blamed on many factors. Natural gas and oil supplies are tight, and demand is high. The war in Ukraine doesn’t help, creating more volatility and uncertainty about energy exports from Russia.

Beyond the price of fuel, heating bills are dependent on the size and energy efficiency of homes and heating equipment, along with thermostat settings and weather conditions. While you can’t control the weather, you can take some simple steps to help cushion the blow of high energy costs.

Here are five easy ways to reduce heating bills and put more money in your pocket.

1. Check your thermostats

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates heating bills can be cut by up to 10% percent simply by lowering your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day, typically when you are asleep or away from home.² If you install a programmable thermostat, you can adjust the times you turn on the heat to a pre-set schedule, and then manually override it if you choose.

2. Let the sunshine in

When the weather permits, open your blinds or drapes and let the sunshine in. Besides providing light, the sun also provides heat — the old-fashioned way. As night falls, close the blinds to help keep the cold out.

3. Seal leaks

Air leaks are among the greatest sources of energy loss. One of the quickest money-saving tasks you can do is to caulk, seal and weather-strip seams, cracks and openings to the outside. According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program, you can save up to 20% on your heating costs by sealing air leaks around windows, doors, outlets, light fixtures, fireplace chimneys and other places where outside air comes in.³

4. Bundle up

Staying warm will keep you from cranking up the heat. Winter is the perfect time to break out your thick sweaters, flannel pajamas and cozy socks. Consider putting throw blankets on the couch, too, so you can stay warm while you’re relaxing.