Freelance Articles
by Mary King
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Winter can be a brutal time on utility bills. Turn out the lights
when you leave a room. Read on for more money-saving ideas.
Winter can be brutal on utility bills. Facing an ongoing economic recession, consumers are
doing everything possible to save money. Yard sales have become routine weekend
events as people sell belongings so as not to get behind on rent and utilities.

Smart Ways to Save Money at Home when the Weather Turns Cold

Consumers on a budget need low-cost, easy ways to save money on fuel and energy bills.
Remember ... a little effort can add up to a substantial amount of money.

  • Lower the heating unit thermostat and use ceiling fans to circulate heat. During
    cold weather months, change the direction so that the fan blades turn clockwise
    (there should be a switch for reversing direction on the motor casing.) Put the fan
    on low speed to prevent an uncomfortable draft.
  • Clean heaters and change filters. It's best to have a central unit serviced by a
    professional at the beginning of the season. Otherwise, keep coils dust-free and
    change the filter often (or clean a permanent filter.)
  • Devote one cold day a week to baking (enough to last for the rest of the week). On that day,
    turn off the heat in the house and stay in the kitchen—or close by—where it's warm.
  • Unplug electronics and appliances not in use. Even when turned off the electrical
    devices use small amounts of energy ... and that means money wasted.
  • Reuse printer paper. Keep a tray close to the printer for rejected print projects.
    Use the paper for grocery lists, errand lists, notes, and whatever else is suitable.
  • Wash and dry only full loads of laundry. When weather permits, hang clothes
    outdoors.
  • Run the dishwasher when it's full. Partial loads waste water and energy.
  • Check for cold air leaking inside around windows and doors and window air
    conditioning units. Seal any openings or replace old worn weather stripping.
  • Cut long hot showers to ten minutes or less. It takes more energy (and money) to
    heat water when the temperature outdoors is cold.
  • Keep outdoor holiday light displays within reason. Turn off the display before going
    to bed to save electricity and money.
  • Recycle to keep pollution under control and to help keep product costs down at the grocery (or
    other) store.

Money-Saving Home Energy Tips
for Winter
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October 2011
Health and Safety Tips Save Money during the Winter Season

Spend less money on doctor visits and medicines by eating right and
exercising to stay healthy. Use care and common sense when the
weather turns cold and snow turns to ice: Follow safety rules to
prevent an expensive trip to the emergency room.

  • Air out the home when the weather permits. Stale air is
    unhealthy and depressing. Pick a sunny day and open a few
    windows to let fresh revitalizing air indoors. Stay hydrated on
    cold days.
  • Keep the home dust free. Dust, dust mites, and pet dander
    collect in greater concentrations when a house is closed up for
    weeks at a time. Throw-rugs and bedding don't get cleaned as
    often, so vacuum frequently. Watch out for bedbugs that can
    end with a costly exterminator.
  • Get rid of clutter. Clutter attracts dust and rodents that can
    cause respiratory health issues ... and costly doctor visits.
  • Set up holiday decorations according to package instructions
    without overloading electrical circuits (Can cause costly home
    fires and other damage). Taking shortcuts, neglecting to wear
    safety gear or failing to use the proper tools can result in costly
    trips to the hospital.

Make it a goal during the winter to save money and reduce waste.
Avoid the temptation to spend hard-earned money on things you can
do without, but instead make do with what's on hand. A few simple
changes can put dollars back into your wallet and that's something
most everyone can enjoy all year 'round.