Our gas bills are going up. Already with the deregulation of the Gas Company we have seen an increase in our gas bill and we don't even use gas in the summer. Well needless to say we are being surcharged to death and if that is not enough, our bill will be going up about 40% this winter.

Maybe like us you need to find ways to cut that bill down. So what can we do?

Heating systems

Change your furnace filter monthly, have it serviced regularly and if you have a hot water system bleeding the air out of the system from time to time will ensure hot water is flowing to all chambers. To do this, open the bleed valve with a screwdriver. When the hissing sound stops and the water begins to flow, close the valve.

Windows

Well for starters, keep the caulking around all window frames in good condition and be sure to use weather stripping around all windows. While replacing your windows in the long run with triple pane insulated glass is not a bad idea, the easiest way to prevent heat from escaping is to shut shades, blinds, drapes at night and open them wide during the day on windows that receive direct sunlight. Doing the reverse in the warmer months will cool your house considerably.

Basement and Attic

Put weather stripping around your basement and attic door to prevent drafts.

Lighting

Clean dust off light bulbs, tubes and fixtures. These will lead to better lighting and the use of less lamps and lights.

Doors

Weather strip around doorjambs and thresholds. Invest in storm doors. They reduce heat loss by 40%.

Plumbing

A single dripping hot water faucet wastes 2112 gallons of water a month, so fix those little leaks today. Believe it or not these little drips affect not only your water bill but your gas or electric bill also.