The Other Winter Challenge: Heating Expenses

Last week I introduced the first step in the challenge to grow food this coming summer. Now I'm going to introduce you to a foreign concept to our comfort seeking society. Living like it's the Great Depression all over again when it comes to your winter heating.

Heating costs have been steadily climbing the last several years. While the climb may not be as drastic this year as the last several years learning how to live while consuming less is still valuable and may help you deal with the rising food costs this winter until you can plant those gardens in the other challenge.

Step one: Buy some incense sticks at your local dollar store (no there isn't any new age thing I'm getting you into just a little weatherization on the cheap). Also pick up a tube to two of clear silicone caulking and an application gun to apply.

Step two: On a windy day when you can feel the drafts light one incense stick at a time and use near windows to find the small leaks. Caulk them.

Step three: Turn your thermostat down 2 to 10 degrees. The lower your setting the more money you will save You can always adjust up a degree or 2 once the snow hits later this winter.

Step four: Buy various thickness of socks and some cheap fleece throw blankets. We have more than 10 fleece throw blankets in our home for 5 people. We bundle up to watch TV and read and any other sedentary activities including my time at the sewing machine. If you quilt a few lap quilts made with the cotton crib quilt batting may be nice too and add a country flare to your home.

Step five: Hang heavy draperies and curtains open in the daytime to allow free sun heat in and close at night to help keep paid for heat in.

Step six: Turn down the thermostat anytime you are going to be out for more than 1 hour.

Step seven: Save your savings to apply to food cost increases and for unexpected expenses.