How to Lower Electricity Bills During the Winter
As the temperature falls, the cost of keeping your home nice and cozy can really feel overwhelming. But with the right smart updates, you can keep warm without spending a fortune. Whether you’re facing a sudden chill in the South or snowstorms in New England, use these methods to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.
Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most likely spots for the cold to slip in. Even gaps around pipes and wires can let warm air leak out. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or spray foam to seal these spaces. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Properly sealing all the air leaks could save up to 20% on heating costs.
Plan Heating Schedules on the Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a useful accessory to reduce your heating bills. Adjust the setting to around 68 degrees F when you’re at home, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees down when you’re not home or in bed. Because of the programmed scheduling of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to fit your comfort before you get home or get up in the morning. You shouldn’t lose any warmth, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat model compatible with them to maintain efficiency.
Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
During the day, let in lots of natural light on windows that face south to harness the heat and warmth from the sun. Then, shut the blinds after the sun sets to trap that warmth inside and insulate against the nighttime cold.
Put in More Insulation
If your home’s attic or walls 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, keeping more warmth inside and possibly cutting your heating expenses by up to 15%. Even if your home already has some insulation, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further increase energy efficiency.
Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System
Preventative HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which saves money. Plan an annual checkup with a service technician every fall to ensure optimal performance all winter. In the meantime, swap out the air filter on average every one to three months. A new filter restores full air circulation and lowers energy consumption to keep your home warm.
Rely on Space Heaters Wisely
Space heaters can offer a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also costly to run. As an alternative to turning them on throughout the house, limit their use to when and where you really need the extra heat. For the best energy savings, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
Cozy Up Inside
Layering up isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, but every little bit helps! Put on a warm sweater, pull on fluffy socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and turn down the heat by a few degrees. It might not feel major, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you lower the thermostat.
Stick to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Older appliances and HVAC systems use more energy. Once your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, opt for an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.
Take Advantage of Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Adjust 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 simple trick circulates the heat more evenly and reduces the need for extra heating.
Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can
Many appliances still use electricity when left connected, even when powered down. To stop this hidden power drain, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips makes this tip easier to follow.
Lower Your Water Heater Temperature
A home’s water heater contributes to a significant portion of the monthly energy bill, only surpassed by heating and cooling systems. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to cut power use while still delivering hot water for your household.
Explore New Smart Home Technology
Smart thermostats, smart lighting and other energy-saving devices maximize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to set your thermostat to fit your routine, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even automatically recognize your preferences and self-adjust for comfort to combine efficiency with comfort.
Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking the Bank
Follow these practical tips to stay warm and comfortable this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system running smoothly, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our highly trained technicians offer quick and durable fixes to meet all your comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!
