"warming blankets" for saving on heating bill
I was told a couple of years ago that heaters are extremely bad for your electric bill, not to mention safety. One of my residents used one last year and it brought up our bill noticeably. No more heaters!
I was told warming or electric blankets are much less expensive.
I have used an electric blanket for a few years, and it doesn't seem to effect the electric bill. The new ones adjust automatically to the temperature - and/or you can manually control them. Also they automatically shut off after 12 hours. Mine never gets very hot, but takes the chill off.
I would like to get one for each of my 4 residents (we have a residence for homeless women). The house is old and it's expensive to heat (steam heat/gas furnace). I'm trying to save money on the heat in a safe and less expensive way.
Does anyone know about the blankets?
Thanks
Liz
Re: "warming blankets" for saving on heating bill
Hey Liz
They just had a show about this type of thing on Wisconsin Public Radio today, and someone specifically asked about electric blankets and how much energy they use vs. space heaters. I don't remember what the expert said, but you can listen to the show here.
http://www.wpr.org/ideas/programnotes.cfm
It's the 11:00 show with Larry Meiller. I'm planning on getting some plastic window sealer tonight for my house. If you don't already use it, you should consider it. It really helps stop the drafts from leaky windows. Make sure the windows are locked also. The lock on windows pulls them closer together for a much tighter seal. Drapes also help keep the warmth of the room in the room. Open them in the day to let the sun in, close them at night. There are lots of little things you can do around the house to help out.
Re: "warming blankets" for saving on heating bill
Liz, a few things to consider with electric blankets. (My opinion)
Electric blankets should always be on top of all other blankets on the bed. Nothing should be on top of it.
I don't have one any longer, but the blanket I did have was the one with the timer and temperature controls.
You can't wash an electric blanket.
The blanket should not be sat on, or things put on top of them, ever.
As you can tell, I'm a bit leery about electric blankets.
I think Michaels suggestions are excellent. Especially if the windows are not relatively new. A lot of heat can escape from them and of course drafts can be a big problem .
Re: "warming blankets" for saving on heating bill
Liz,
Another suggestion I forgot all about. Last year for Christmas we got my mom a heated mattress pad. It works like an electric blanket only it goes over the mattress and you lay on top of it. Something like this.
I have never used one, but my mom sure likes it.
Re: "warming blankets" for saving on heating bill
Along the lines of what Lara said, I'd be nervous of having a cat on the bed too (maybe unless it's declawed)...