How to Reduce Electricity Bills in Winter
As the temperature falls, the cost of keeping your home nice and cozy can really add up. But with some simple adjustments, you can keep warm without draining your wallet. Whether you’re facing a sudden chill in the South or months of cold in New England, use these methods to cut energy costs in winter.
Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most likely spots for cold air to enter. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air leak out. Use weatherstripping, sealing compound or foam sealant to block these gaps. Also, don’t forget to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Sealing a leaky home may save up to 20% on heating costs.
Program Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a useful accessory to control your heating bills. Program it for around 68 degrees F when you’re at home, and drop it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re not home or in bed. With the programmed scheduling of smart thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to where you like it before you get home or start your day. You won’t lose any warmth, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat model compatible with them to keep efficiency high.
Use the Sun’s Free Heat
During the day, let in lots of natural light on south-facing windows to harness the heat and warmth from the sun. Then, draw the curtains once the sun goes down to trap that warmth inside and block out the nighttime cold.
Put in More Insulation
If your home’s attic or walls don’t have enough insulation, your home is leaking warmth. Adding more insulation reinforces the layer between indoor and outdoor air, keeping more warmth inside and possibly lowering heating bills by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, using better insulation can further enhance your home’s heat retention.
Don’t Put Off Maintenance for Your Heating System
Preventive HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which reduces energy costs. Plan an annual checkup with a maintenance technician each fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. In the meantime, change the air filter approximately every one to three months. A new filter restores airflow while it also reduces the energy your system uses to keep you warm.
Rely on Space Heaters Sparingly
Space heaters can provide a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Instead of trying to add one in every room, use them only when and where you really need the extra heat. For even higher efficiency, try to select energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
Cozy Up Inside
Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, pull on fluffy socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It might not sound like much, but you could save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you lower the thermostat.
Seek Out High Efficiency Appliances
Older appliances and HVAC systems are much less efficient. Once your furnace or water heater is due for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to cut down on costs.
Use Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can help in the winter too. Adjust your fans to spin clockwise on a gentle spin in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This quick and easy change circulates the heat more evenly and cuts down on additional heating.
Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in
Many electronics continue to draw power when left connected, even when turned off. To stop this hidden power drain, disconnect electronics like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips helps keep it from being a hassle.
Adjust the Temperature of Your Water Heater
Your water heater contributes to a large chunk of your energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Lower the temperature to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still delivering hot water for your household.
Make the Most of Smart Home Technology
Advanced smart home technology for thermostats and lighting improve electricity usage. Not only can you schedule temperature adjustments, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even automatically recognize your preferences and tweak temperature settings on its own to maximize savings without sacrificing warmth.
Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs
Follow these practical tips to stay warm and comfortable this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our highly trained technicians provide fast, reliable and long-lasting solutions to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!
