How to Save Money on Electricity Bills This Winter
As the temperature drops, the cost of keeping your home warm can really feel overwhelming. But with a few smart updates, you can keep warm without spending a fortune. Whether you’re experiencing a cold snap in the South or snowstorms in New England, try these suggestions to cut energy costs in winter.
Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Drafty windows and doors are the most likely spots for the cold to slip in. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air seep out. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or expanding foam to seal these spaces. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Fully addressing drafts in your home can save up to 20% on heating costs.
Plan Heating Schedules on the Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a good option to reduce your heating bills. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and reduce it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re not home or sleeping. With the programmed scheduling of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to fit your comfort before you make it home or wake up in the morning. You won’t notice a change in comfort, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat model compatible with them to ensure energy efficiency.
Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
During daylight hours, let in lots of natural light on windows that face south to use the heat and warmth from the sun. Then, shut the blinds once the sun goes down to hold onto the warmth and insulate against the nighttime cold.
Supplement Existing Insulation
If your home’s attic or walls don’t have enough insulation, your home is letting a lot of heat get out. Adding more insulation acts as a protective barrier, trapping more heat inside and possibly cutting your heating expenses by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further enhance your home’s heat retention.
Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System
Preventative HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which saves money. Plan an annual checkup with a service technician during the fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. In the meantime, replace the air filter approximately every one to three months. A new filter restores full air circulation and 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. As an alternative to trying to add one in every room, only turn them on when and where you really need them. For even higher efficiency, try to look for energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
Add a Warm Layer Inside
Wearing the right clothing isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, some thick socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It may not seem significant, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your heat.
Seek Out High Efficiency Appliances
Older appliances and HVAC systems are much less efficient. Once your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, opt for an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to cut down on costs.
Use the Winter Setting on Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling off in the summer. Set your fans to turn clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to circulate heat downward into the room. This quick and easy change circulates the heat more evenly and cuts down on additional heating.
Unplug Unused Electronics
Many devices continue to consume energy when left connected, even when powered down. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips helps keep it from being a hassle.
Lower the Temperature of Your Water Heater
The water heater contributes to a major part of your energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to save energy while still delivering hot water for your household.
Make the Most of Smart Home Technology
Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs improve electricity usage. Not only can you set your thermostat to fit your routine, but you can control it from anywhere. Some can even adapt to your behavior and tweak temperature settings on its own to balance comfort and efficiency.
Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking the Bank
Use these helpful suggestions to stay warm and comfortable this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, turn to Komfort Air. Our certified technicians offer fast, reliable and long-lasting solutions to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!
