How to Reduce Electricity Bills in Winter
As the temperature gets colder, the cost of keeping your home nice and cozy can really add up. But with a few strategic changes, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden chill in the South or snowstorms in New England, follow these tips to save money on electricity bills in winter.
Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Poorly hung doors and drafty windows are the most obvious places for letting in drafts. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air escape. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or foam sealant to block these gaps. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Properly sealing all the air leaks can save up to 20% on heating costs.
Use the Scheduling Feature on Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a useful accessory to control your heating bills. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re gone or sleeping. With the automatic management of smart thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you come home or get up in the morning. You won’t feel a difference, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to keep efficiency high.
Use the Sun’s Free Heat
During daylight hours, pull back drapes and shades on windows that face south to take advantage of the heat and warmth from the sun. Then, close the window coverings when the sun goes down to keep that heat in and block out the nighttime cold.
Add More Insulation
If your home’s attic or walls lack sufficient insulation, your home is letting a lot of heat get out. Adding more insulation acts as a protective barrier, keeping more warmth inside and potentially reducing your heating costs 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
Preventive HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which reduces energy costs. Arrange an annual checkup with a service technician during the fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. Between these visits, replace the air filter on average 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 Sparingly
Space heaters can deliver a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also costly to run. Instead of using them in every room, only turn them on when and where you really need them. For maximum savings, try to select energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
Add a Warm Layer Inside
Layering up isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, pull on fluffy socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and turn down the heat by a few degrees. It may not seem significant, but you can save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your heat.
Stick to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Outdated home utilities use more energy. When your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.
Take Advantage of Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling off in the summer. Adjust your fans to rotate clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This small adjustment spreads warmth more evenly throughout the space and cuts down on additional heating.
Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can
Many appliances still use electricity when plugged in, even when switched off. To cut down on “phantom” energy use, unplug devices like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Having power strips you can quickly switch off makes this tip easier to follow.
Lower the Temperature of Your Water Heater
A home’s water heater contributes to a large chunk of your energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to save energy while still meeting your hot water needs for your household.
Make the Most of Smart Home Technology
Advanced smart home technology for thermostats and lighting help optimize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to schedule temperature adjustments, but you can access it via your phone or tablet. Some can even automatically recognize your preferences and adjust the temperature automatically to combine efficiency with comfort.
Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking the Bank
Follow these practical tips to keep your living space cozy this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our Expert technicians offer fast, reliable and long-lasting solutions to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!
