As temperatures drop and winter settles in, many homeowners worry about rising heating bills. At Burch Oil & Propane, we understand the importance of staying warm without stretching your budget. Here are some practical and effective ways to manage your heating costs while ensuring your home remains cozy all season long.
1. Optimize Your Heating System
A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, saving you money in the long run. Scheduling a tune-up for your furnace, boiler, or oil tank ensures it runs at peak performance, minimizing fuel waste. Dirty filters, clogged vents, or outdated equipment can all drive up your energy bills unnecessarily.
Pro Tip: Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency system if your current one is over 15 years old. Newer models can save up to 30% on heating costs compared to older units.
2. Take Advantage of Price Protection Plans
Fluctuating fuel prices can add stress to your winter budget. Signing up for a cap price or budget payment plan offers stability and peace of mind. These plans allow you to lock in a predictable monthly payment, avoiding the impact of market volatility.
Our Solution: Burch Oil & Propane’s EZ Budget Plan spreads your heating costs over the year, giving you consistent payments and avoiding high seasonal bills.
3. Seal Your Home’s Envelope
Your home’s insulation and seals are its first defense against cold air creeping in. Drafty windows, doors, or uninsulated attics can cause significant heat loss, forcing your heating system to work harder.
Quick Fixes:
- Use weatherstripping on doors and windows.
- Add insulation to your attic or crawl space.
- Seal leaks around vents, pipes, and light fixtures.
These simple upgrades can cut energy loss by up to 25%, making a noticeable difference in your heating bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
4. Adopt Smart Thermostat Habits
A programmable or smart thermostat can help you save without sacrificing comfort. Set it to lower the temperature while you’re sleeping or away from home and increase it only when needed.
Example: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) shares, lowering your thermostat by 7–10°F for eight hours a day can save up to 10% annually on heating costs. Many smart thermostats even offer insights into your energy usage, helping you identify additional savings opportunities.
5. Supplement with Propane
If you’re heating with oil, consider supplementing with propane for specific areas or uses, such as fireplaces or space heaters. Propane is efficient, versatile, and reliable during power outages, making it an excellent secondary heat source.
6. Leverage Tax Credits and Incentives
The government and local agencies often provide tax credits or rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. From insulation improvements to high-efficiency heating systems, these incentives can offset the upfront cost of making your home more efficient.
Did You Know? Certain upgrades may qualify for federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. Additionally receive up to $1,200 in Tax Credits with the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C). Check with your local energy office or ask us about eligible options.
Plan Ahead for Emergencies
Winter storms can disrupt fuel deliveries or increase demand. Keeping your tank at least half full ensures you’re prepared for unexpected cold snaps.
Burch Advantage: We offer automatic delivery services so you never have to worry about running out during the coldest months.
A Warm Home Without the Chill of High Bills
At Burch Oil & Propane, we’re here to help you navigate the winter months with ease. From maintaining your heating system to offering budget-friendly payment plans, we’re committed to keeping your home warm and your costs manageable.
Need assistance with your heating system or want to learn more about our price protection plans? Contact us today to see how we can help you stay cozy all winter long.
Stay warm, stay smart, and enjoy the season!
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