Heat Up Energy Savings by Investing in a Humidifier -- Savings Experiment

The temperature outside is falling, which means your heating bill will soon be on the rise. But how can you stay warm without burning through your budget?

Naturally, the easiest thing to do is to turn down your thermostat. Based on national averages, it costs about $200 per month to heat your home to 72 degrees, while it costs just $144 per month to heat it to 65 degrees. That will save you as much 28 percent off your heating bill. However, not everyone can live with cooler indoor temperatures.

That's where a humidifier can make a big difference. It adds moisture to the air, which retains heat better than dry air, leaving you more comfortable. Plus, when you're saving $56 per month by turning down your thermostat, that more than covers the cost of operating your humidifier, which can run you about $10 per month.

Our experts found that warm mist humidifiers work best, so keep that in mind when you're shopping. Stores like Bed Bath and Beyond, Target and Walmart are good places to start, and often hold seasonal sales or offer store coupons so you can shave down the cost of your new unit. With these tips, you'll easily be able to stay warm and save this season.