O.K. girls - lets share our frugal ideas

Avatar for me_n_my_gals
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
O.K. girls - lets share our frugal ideas
4
Wed, 10-12-2005 - 8:50am
since we are going to have an expensive heating season this year.......
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Avatar for me_n_my_gals
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Wed, 10-12-2005 - 9:14am

O.K., first at the top of the list would be, we are going to turn the thermostat down by 2 degrees during the day. We usually keep it at 68, however, it is just me home during the day, so I will turn it down to 66 and keep it at 64 overnight. Also, if I'm leaving the house for more than an hour, I will turn the temp down to 64.

I am going to buy window coverings for 2 of my windows, that I have been putting off purchasing, because they are large windows, so it will be expensive. However, I think the heat that we will retain by having them, will save us money in the long run.

On sunny days, I will leave all the blinds, drapes, etc. open, to collect "free heat" from the sun. We built an Energy Star home last year, and I think we will reap the benefits of it this year. Once our house heats up, it stays warm for a considerable amount of time. For example, yesterday, I collected my "free heat" and the house warmed up to 72. This morning, the house was still 69 degrees, when I got up at 4:45. I realize it is still only October, however, I am hoping that the sunshine coming in the windows in the afternoon will be a benefit.

I am going to buy Coldwater Tide, and do as much laundry in cold water as I can.

I have also heard that using your washer, dishwasher, etc. after 7pm saves money, because they charge less at off peak hours (when businesses aren't open). So, I will try to run the dishwasher later, and run the washer and dryer later.

I will use my crockpot often, as I don't need to use my gas stove for this - yes, it uses electricity, but it will still be cheaper than the natural gas used in my oven.

I think purchasing extra slippers, socks, sweatshirts and turtlenecks is a good idea this heating season! Also, who doesn't like a good cup of cocoa on a cold winter day? Which reminds me, I have an excellent recipe for homemade hot cocoa. It is great as a gift, and I always have a big jar of it in the cabinet. It truly is cheaper to make than buying it.

I'm looking forward to hearing some other ideas.

Wendy

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iVillage Member
Registered: 03-27-2003
Wed, 10-12-2005 - 1:32pm
I am putting flannel sheets on the kids' beds, and having them wear thermal undershirts to bed and under shirts at school if it's cold enough. Wash in cold water and turn down water heater. Keep thermostat to 65 during day and night. Extra blankets on the beds.
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-13-2003
Wed, 10-12-2005 - 1:40pm

this may sounds silly, but it has worked for us in past years. We have a dog, and we put in a doggy dog in the back door in winter months for him to go in and out on his own. The door isnt open and warm air isnt getting out, and we have to adjust the heat less. I also turn the heat down in the bedrooms, and use flannel sheets, ect. I always wash in cold water, so that doesnt change. we also use our wood burning fireplace to help heat the main living floor of our home.

Where's Traci when we need her lol, she always has good frugal ideas.

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iVillage Member
Registered: 02-20-2005
Wed, 10-12-2005 - 1:54pm

here's a link with some ideas...


http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/9231262/

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