3 Easy Ways to Save Money Despite Rising Heating Oil Prices

Posted: Mar 05, 2012
Author: Bumgarner Oil

If you use heating oil to keep your house warm during the winter, you’ve no doubt noticed how high heating oil prices have climbed in the 2011-2012 season. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average person using natural gas this winter will pay $671, whereas the average heating oil user will spend a whopping $2,383.

Why is there such a huge difference between natural gas and heating oil prices? The basic answer is that natural gas generally comes from local areas in the U.S., whereas oil is imported from abroad. If you are one of the many people suffering from high heating oil prices this winter, a recent CBS news report explains three easy ways you can save money:

1. Turn down your thermostat—It may not seem like a big deal, but it turns out that you can save up to 2% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your thermostat. If you’re willing to put on a sweatshirt or wrap yourself in a blanket on cold winter days instead of cranking up the heat, you could save big in the long run.
2. Turn down the temperature on your water heater—you probably won’t notice the difference in water temperature when you’re doing dishes or taking a shower, but you will notice the positive impact it will have on your budget.
3. Take shorter showers—While it’s certainly nice to have a long, hot shower and let your troubles wash down the drain, if you’re willing to cut your shower time in half, you could save up to 33% on your heating bill.

Do you have any more ideas on how to combat high heating oil prices this winter? Post a comment and let us know!