Most cost efficient way to heat a home

In my opinion, the most cost-efficient way is to cut your own firewood. All it takes is some gas and a little oil.
The rest is just labor (Assuming you're able).
That's all I've been using this winter, and I'm very comfortable.
Plus, I enjoy the ambiance with a little soft music.

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No matter where I set the thermostat or how many layers of clothing I wear, I'm never as warm as I was when me and my kids lived in the cabin with a wood-stove.

Wood was cheap and plentiful back then. You'd go hiking with your neighbors and some chain saws, looking for fallen trees. When you found a good one, everyone would pick a section to slice off and come back later to haul it away. If you had a big family and your house had more rooms, you got to claim a section that was longer or thicker...we'd work it out fairly.

When we had to cut down a live tree, we tagged the ones we liked with a little strip of green plastic or cloth, note the location, and go talk to a ranger about a permit. Trees that already had a little red plastic strip on them were tagged by a ranger. Those were ok to cut down, you just had to go get the permit first.

Some years I had to buy more wood than I was allowed to chop up myself. Other years I didn't have to buy any at all because there was plenty to chop up. I mean, there was always lots of trees - seemingly no end of trees - but state rangers could only approve so many live-fell permits each year, and some years they couldn't approve any at all. (per the BLM)
 
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We prebuy 500 gallons of propane and that gets us through the year for heat and hot water. But I supplement with wood heat in a free standing fireplace. On winter days with temps above 15F, the propane heat never turns on. I think we may have a bit leftover on our prebuy due to the very mild winter. For sure, a lot of firewood will be left so cutting wood next year will be an easy task.

We have a two year old energy efficient Trane gas furnace.
 
Murrmurr said:
No matter where I set the thermostat or how many layers of clothing I wear, I'm never as warm as I was when me and my kids lived in the cabin with a wood-stove.
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So true

Now that we've spent three winters here in town, I bump the thermostat whenever I feel a bit too cool, no matter what the temp shows
I got used to running around the place at night in my bed shorts up at the cabin (that wood stove would blast us out.....running outside making naked snow angels became tempting)

I wish to be comfy no matter the cost
Our nat gas bill (monthly avg) is $68 usd, year round

Now, if it were up to my lady, we'd never have the heat on, ever.
And wear parkas and gloves and boots.....even to bed

My winning argument is the specter of black mold
 
"Cost comparison of home energy use". This does not state just heating a home. In my case I use natural gas for heat and stove (cooking) only. Some folks may use natural gas for heat, stove (cooking), water heater, cloths dryer and possibly more. I know how much my gas bill is, but have no way to know how much of that was for heating my home. Lot of variables here. I agree wood may be the cheapest, but soon the government will shut that down due to climate change. Or so they will say.
 
Gary O' said:
So true

Now that we've spent three winters here in town, I bump the thermostat whenever I feel a bit too cool, no matter what the temp shows
I got used to running around the place at night in my bed shorts up at the cabin (that wood stove would blast us out.....running outside making naked snow angels became tempting)

I wish to be comfy no matter the cost
Our nat gas bill (monthly avg) is $68 usd, year round

Now, if it were up to my lady, we'd never have the heat on, ever.
And wear parkas and gloves and boots.....even to bed

My winning argument is the specter of black mold
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Same! I've accepted that keeping warm costs. I'm gonna pay for that privilege.
 
The most cost-efficient way to heat your home depends on several factors, including:

Climate: Where you live and the typical temperature range greatly impact the heating system's efficiency and fuel costs.Home size and insulation: A well-insulated home loses less heat, making any heating system more effective.Fuel availability and costs: The cost of various fuel sources like natural gas, electricity, propane, or wood pellets can vary significantly in different regions.Existing infrastructure: The cost of installing a new heating system can outweigh the long-term savings if your existing system is still functional.

Here are some general options to consider, from most to least cost-efficient:

1. Air sealing and insulation: Before investing in a new heating system, prioritize improving your home's energy efficiency. Seal air leaks, add insulation to attic, walls, and basement, and ensure windows and doors are weatherstripped. This can significantly reduce your heating needs and save money on any system.

2. Heat pumps: In mild climates, heat pumps are generally the most cost-efficient option. They extract heat from the outside air and transfer it to your home, even when the temperature is below freezing. Air-source heat pumps are common, but geothermal heat pumps can be even more efficient.

3. Natural gas furnaces: If natural gas is readily available and affordable in your area, a high-efficiency natural gas furnace can be a cost-effective choice. Look for models with an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90% or higher.

4. Propane furnaces: Propane furnaces can be efficient in areas without access to natural gas, but propane costs can fluctuate more than natural gas.

5. Electric furnaces: Electric furnaces are generally the least efficient and most expensive to operate due to high electricity costs. However, they can be suitable for small, well-insulated spaces or as a backup system in mild climates.

6. Wood or pellet stoves: Wood and pellet stoves can be cost-effective if you have access to a reliable and affordable source of fuel. However, they require more maintenance and may not be suitable for all homes due to air quality concerns.

Additional tips:
  • Programmable thermostats: Set your thermostat to lower temperatures when you're away or asleep to save energy.
  • Heating zones: Consider installing zone heating systems to only heat the rooms you're using.
  • Regular maintenance: Ensure your heating system is properly maintained for optimal efficiency and to avoid breakdowns.

Remember, the best way to find the most cost-efficient heating solution for your specific situation is to consult with a qualified energy auditor or HVAC professional. They can assess your home's needs and recommend the most effective and affordable options based on your local climate, fuel availability, and budget.
 
DebraMae said:
I am all electric with propane only for emergency use. Last years total electric for everything was $2,575. That includes water because the well is electric.
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A bit over a couple hundred, including water, dont sound too bad

Our city water is a bit over $60/mo

Miss the free water up at the cabin
it was so pure
 

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