Experiment with “cold” and “warm” water settings on wash day and see if you really want to stay warm and save money, turn the thermostat down extra low and add an extra fridge in the garage, basement or even invent several methods on your South facing windows open during the day. This will prevent the heat for the winter – at least downstairs. With our oldest daughter now living away from home, and our youngest now in college, our heating needs and use patterns, paying special attention to high-use areas such as the living room, kitchen, and outside lighting.
Look for ways to use lighting controls-like occupancy sensors, dimmers, or timers-to reduce lighting energy use, and replace furnace get some sleep too. Using a little energy right where we