Saving $ on the gas bill

Dec 01, 2005 10 Replies
D

I was kind of freaked about natural gas prices since I got two notices from Alliant Energy that they were hiking prices. I read some tips on the DOE website about how to weather proof and save heat this winter. I did a few things and spent about $2500. I got my first two natuaral gas bill and was pleasantly surprised when I comared to my last years gas bill. I saved 20% this month and last month. This is what I did.


90% efficient powervent furnace installed = $2000 I put a Chimney Balloon in my fireplace flue = $50 I calked my old style single pane windows = $5 I blew in another 12" of celulose attic insulation = $250 I foamed around my door jams with Great stuff. = $10

The time and money I sent on this stuff is minimal compared to a 20% savings. I am thrilled!



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T

Very cool. That should pay back inside a couple years or less! Thanks for sharing the info.

What's the chimney balloon do for ya?

-- Todd H.

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L

when fireplace not in use, it keeps room heat from going up flue & stops the cold draft that is the result of having a missing, damaged, or warped damper

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P

You would have been even more thrilled had you waited until January 1st to make those improvements at which time they would also have yielded big tax savings...

Patrick

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T

Ah....

-- Todd H.

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B

Excellent! Now with the money you save, put it into additional energy saving things over the next 5 or so years. Energy Star double pane windows, Energy Star appliances, etc.

Over time, you will see your cost of living going down rather than up.

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T

Is there a new credit going into place? I missed the memo.

-- Todd H.

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T

Todd is correct. You could have received a $150 tax credit for the new furance.

see attached link

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C

Does that mean furnace prices will be going up about $150 on Jan. 1?

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C

Just don't forget it's there next time you want to roast chestnuts.

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A

Excellent choices.

Two other steps I might suggest;

  1. A programmable thermostat ( about ) I have ours set to drop temp to 62 from 10 pm to 6am.

  1. Inexpensive shrink-wrap kits for some of your windows. The DO work.

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