Easy Ways to Lower your Heating Costs
We are approaching that time of the year when the temperature starts to drop, and your heating bill will be on the rise. But there are easy ways that you can reduce your energy use and save a little money.
- When the sun comes out open your blinds and let those rays in. Doing this will help to warm up your home without costing you anything. When it starts getting dark, make sure you close your blinds/curtains to keep the cool air out.
- Check around all of your windows and doors for leaks. Buy some inexpensive caulking and weather stripping to keep the warm air in and save you money on your electric bill.
- You can lower your electric bill significantly by adjusting your thermostat. Adjusting your thermostat by at least two degrees will make a difference on your monthly heating costs. Put on a sweatshirt and a pair of socks to make you more comfortable if you feel chilly. Remember to also turn your thermostat up whenever you are not going to be home.
- Proper maintenance will help your heating unit run more efficiently. Electric and oil heaters should get professional attention at least once a year and gas heaters every other year. Also, here’s a step you can take all on your own: Remember to check the filters in your heating system and make sure they’re clean and clear. Dirty filters lead to higher heating costs.
- Be sure that you check the exterior of your heating unit. Avoid stacking anything against the heat pump or draping anything over it. Hose the outside unit down to clear it of dirt, leaves and grass clippings.
- a good way to heat your home without adding to your heating bill, is to use your oven. And now is the perfect time to do just that. Did you know that December 4th is National Cookie Day? So spend some time with your family and bake your favorite cookie recipes. Leave the door open after you turn it off, to allow that residual heat to continue to warm your home. If you are new to the baking scene and don’t have a recipe, no worries, we have provided one for you here below. Visit our Facebook page and vote for your favorite cookie recipe. www.facebook.com/tctpropertieswest.
By turning down the thermostat and following these simple steps you will realize a noticeable difference in your heating costs. If you implement each of these strategies you will have more money to spend on Christmas or hide away for a rainy day. Save money and stay warm this winter.
This article was authored by: Jennifer Jones, © 2012, updated by Alana Bell © 2020, for www.tctwestproperties.com.
The following Receipe comes from Taste of Home
https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/big-buttery-chocolate-chip-cookies/
Big & Buttery Chocolate Chip Cookies
My take on the classic cookie is inspired by a bakery in California called Hungry Bear. It's big, thick and chewy—truly the best chocolate chip cookie recipe. —Irene Yeh, Mequon, Wisconsin
TOTAL TIME: Prep: 35 min. chilling Bake: 10 min./batch YIELD: about 2 dozen.
Ingredients
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1-1/4 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 package (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted
Directions
1. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until blended. Beat in eggs and vanilla. In a small bowl, whisk flour, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into butter mixture. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts.
2. Shape 1/4 cupfuls of dough into balls. Flatten each to 3/4-in. thickness (2-1/2-in. diameter), smoothing edges as necessary. Place in an airtight container, separating layers with waxed paper or parchment; refrigerate, covered, overnight.
3. To bake, place dough portions 2 in. apart on parchment-lined baking sheets; let stand at room temperature 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 400°.
4. Bake until edges are golden brown (centers will be light), 10-12 minutes. Cool on pans 2 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool. © 2020 RDC Enthusist Brands, LLC
