How to Save Money on Electricity Bills in Winter
As the temperature gets colder, the price of keeping your home nice and cozy can really pile up. But with some simple adjustments, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re experiencing a cold front in the South or snowstorms in New England, try these suggestions to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.
1. Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
While the sun is out, let in lots of natural light on south-facing windows to take advantage of the natural heat from the sun. Then, draw the curtains after the sun sets to hold onto the warmth and block out the nighttime cold.
2. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can help in the winter too. Make sure the fans are set to spin clockwise on a low setting in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This quick and easy change circulates the heat more evenly and cuts down on additional heating.
3. Seal Air Leaks
Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most obvious places for letting in drafts. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air escape. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or foam sealant to block these gaps. Also, remember to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Properly sealing all the air leaks could save up to 20% on heating costs.
4. Invest in Smart Home Technology
Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs improve electricity usage. Not only is it possible to set your thermostat to fit your routine, but you can control it from anywhere. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and tweak temperature settings on its own to balance comfort and efficiency.
5. Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in
Many electronics continue to use electricity when plugged in, even when turned off. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, unplug devices like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using power strips with an off switch makes it easy.
6. Use the Scheduling Feature on Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a useful accessory to control your heating bills. Adjust the setting to around 68 degrees F when you’re awake, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees down when you’re not home or asleep. Because of the programmed scheduling of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to where you like it before you come home or get up in the morning. You won’t lose any warmth, but you’ll definitely notice the savings—up to 10% annually. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, make sure to use a thermostat model compatible with them to keep efficiency high.
7. Add Insulation
If your attic, walls or floors 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, locking in warmth and potentially reducing your heating costs by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further enhance your home’s heat retention.
8. Bundle Up Inside
Layering up isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, some thick socks and use a blanket. Then, go ahead and turn down the heat by a few degrees. It might not sound like much, but you can save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your heat.
9. Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
A home’s water heater is responsible for a significant portion of your energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Lower the temperature to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still meeting your hot water needs for your household.
10. Use Space Heaters Sparingly
Space heaters can deliver a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Rather than 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.
11. Seek Out Energy-Efficient Appliances
Outdated home utilities are much less efficient. If your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, opt for an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.
12. Maintain Your Heating System
Regular HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which reduces energy costs. Schedule an annual checkup with a service technician during the fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. In the meantime, change the air filter approximately every one to three months. A fresh air filter restores airflow and reduces the energy your system uses to keep your home warm.
Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs
Follow these practical tips to enjoy a cozy home this winter while reducing your energy expenses. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, turn to McLoughlin Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Our Expert technicians offer efficient and dependable services to meet everyone’s comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!
