How to Save Money on Electricity Bills During the Winter
As the temperature gets colder, the cost of keeping your home nice and cozy can really pile up. But with some smart updates, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re facing a sudden chill in the South or blizzards in New England, use these methods to cut energy costs in winter.
Seal Air Leaks
Poorly hung doors and drafty windows are the most obvious places for cold air to enter. Even gaps around pipes and wires can let warm air seep out. Use insulation strips, sealant or spray foam to seal these spaces. Also, remember to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Fully addressing drafts in your home could save up to 20% on heating costs.
Use the Scheduling Feature on Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a useful accessory to manage your heating bills. Adjust the setting to around 68 degrees F when you’re awake, and drop it 7 to 10 degrees down when you’re not home or sleeping. With the automatic adjustments of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to fit your comfort before you get home or wake up in the morning. You won’t lose any warmth, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% annually. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat model compatible with them to ensure energy efficiency.
Use the Sun’s Free Heat
During the day, pull back drapes and shades on windows that face south to take advantage of the heat and warmth from the sun. Then, shut the blinds when the sun sets to hold onto the warmth and block out the nighttime cold.
Add More Insulation
If your floors and attic aren’t properly insulated, your home is letting a lot of heat get out. Adding more insulation reinforces the layer between indoor and outdoor air, trapping more heat inside and potentially cutting your heating expenses by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further enhance your home’s heat retention.
Maintain Your Heating System
Preventive HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which reduces energy costs. Plan an annual checkup with an HVAC technician each fall to ensure optimal performance all winter. During the rest of the year, replace the air filter roughly every one to three months. A new filter restores full air circulation and cuts down on energy usage to keep your home warm.
Rely on Space Heaters Sparingly
Space heaters can provide a fast way to heat, but they’re also costly to run. Instead of trying to add one in every room, only turn them on when and where you really need the extra heat. For maximum savings, try to look for energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
Bundle Up Inside
Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Put on a warm sweater, a pair of warm socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and turn down the heat by a few degrees. It may not feel major, but you can save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your heat.
Upgrade to High Efficiency Appliances
Older appliances and HVAC systems consume more electricity. Once your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, select an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to reduce expenses.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling off in the summer. Adjust your fans to rotate clockwise on a low setting in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This simple trick improves heat distribution and cuts down on additional heating.
Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can
Many electronics still use electricity when left connected, even when turned 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 the Temperature of Your Water Heater
Your water heater accounts for a significant portion of your energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to save energy while still delivering hot water for your household.
Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology
Advanced smart home technology for thermostats and lighting improve electricity usage. Not only can you set your thermostat to fit your routine, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even automatically recognize your preferences and adjust the temperature automatically to maximize savings without sacrificing warmth.
Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking the Bank
Follow these practical tips to enjoy a cozy home this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our highly trained technicians deliver efficient and dependable services to meet all your comfort needs. For Expert service you can trust, contact us today!
