Web Site Helps You Save Energy and Money This Winter

Photo: NOAA

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In July, there was worry that heating oil prices might triple this winter, as compared to last year. The declining price of oil now makes that seem unlikely (the first official national price forecast for heating oil comes out next week), and natural gas — used by many for heating — is also expected to be abundant, which should keep prices moderate.

The weather forecast, too, is favorable, with higher than normal temperatures predicted across most of the U.S. throughout the heating season.

Still January 2008 was the first time oil hit $100 a barrel — and it shocked homeowners who had to fill their tanks, prompting state legislatures in the northern states to spend more on heating-season energy assistance to low-income families. As the winter heating season begins, oil remains around that milestone level.

And the volatile economy alone could inspire more people to look for savings on their energy bills. Besides, saving energy always means reducing pollution and reducing demand on finite natural resources — which to us, is reason enough.

To help, the Department of Energy today launched Energysavers.gov, a Web site designed to help homeowners tackle these five fall energy to-do's:

1. Look for assistance from your utility or state
2. Conduct an energy audit
3. Have your heating system serviced
4. Find and seal your air leaks
5. Check your insulation and add more as needed

Some tips require no money; others require significant investments. All will pay off eventually in energy savings, particularly if the cost of heating oil and natural gas rise in the years to come.

Also keep your eyes out for The Daily Green's guide to winter energy hacks — coming soon!

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