How to Save Money on Electricity Bills in Winter
As the temperature drops, the cost of keeping your home warm can really add up. But with some smart updates, you can keep warm without spending a fortune. Whether you’re facing a cold snap in the South or months of cold in New England, try these suggestions to cut energy costs in winter.
Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Poorly hung doors and drafty windows are the most common culprits for letting in drafts. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air escape. Use weatherstripping, sealant or expanding foam to seal these spaces. Also, remember to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Properly sealing all the air leaks could save up to 20% on heating costs.
Use the Scheduling Feature on Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a good option to reduce your heating bills. Program it for around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees below that when you’re gone or in bed. Thanks to the automatic management of programmable thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you make it home or get up in the morning. You won’t notice a change in comfort, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to maintain efficiency.
Use the Sun’s Free Heat
During daylight hours, let in lots of natural light on south-facing windows to take advantage of the warmth from the sun. Then, close the window coverings once the sun goes down to trap that warmth inside and block out the nighttime cold.
Add More Insulation
If your floors and attic lack sufficient insulation, your home is leaking warmth. Adding more insulation acts as a protective barrier, trapping more heat inside and potentially lowering heating bills by up to 15%. Even if your home has existing insulation, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further boost your energy savings.
Don’t Put Off Maintenance for Your Heating System
Routine HVAC maintenance keeps your heating system running efficiently, which saves money. Schedule an annual checkup with a maintenance technician during the fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. Between these visits, change the air filter around every one to three months. A new filter restores full air circulation while it also lowers energy consumption to keep you warm.
Use Space Heaters Wisely
Space heaters can deliver a fast way to heat, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Rather than turning them on throughout the house, only turn them on when and where you really need the extra heat. For maximum savings, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
Cozy Up Inside
Wearing the right clothing isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, but every little bit helps! Add a nice, thick sweater, some thick socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and adjust the setting by a few degrees. It may not sound like much, but you can save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you drop the temperature.
Upgrade to High Efficiency Appliances
Older appliances and HVAC systems are much less efficient. If your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to reduce expenses.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Set your fans to spin clockwise on a gentle spin in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This small adjustment improves heat distribution and lessens heating demand.
Unplug Unused Electronics
Many electronics still consume energy when left connected, even when switched off. To cut down on “phantom” energy use, disconnect electronics like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips makes it easy.
Lower Your Water Heater Temperature
A home’s water heater accounts for a significant portion of the monthly energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Lower the temperature to 120 degrees to cut power use while still meeting your hot water needs for your household.
Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology
Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs improve electricity usage. Not only is it possible to schedule temperature adjustments, but you can control it from anywhere. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and self-adjust for comfort to balance comfort and efficiency.
Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs
Follow these practical tips to enjoy a cozy home this winter while reducing your energy expenses. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our Expert technicians deliver quick and durable fixes to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!
