How to Lower Electricity Bills During the Winter
As the temperature drops, the price of keeping your home warm can really add up. 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 blizzards in New England, use these methods to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.
Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Poorly hung doors and drafty windows are the most common culprits for the cold to slip in. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air seep out. Use weatherstripping, sealant or expanding foam to block these gaps. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Fully addressing drafts in your home could save up to 20% on heating costs.
Program Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a good option to control your heating bills. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and drop it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re not home or asleep. 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 get up in the morning. You won’t feel a difference, but you’ll definitely notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to keep efficiency high.
Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
During the day, pull back drapes and shades on windows that face south to harness the warmth from the sun. Then, shut the blinds after the sun goes down to hold onto the warmth and block out the nighttime cold.
Supplement Existing Insulation
If your home’s attic or walls lack sufficient insulation, 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 possibly cutting your heating expenses by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further boost your energy savings.
Don’t Put Off Maintenance for Your Heating System
Regular HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which saves money. Plan an annual checkup with a service technician during the fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. In the meantime, swap out the air filter roughly every one to three months. A fresh air filter restores airflow and lowers energy consumption to keep you warm.
Rely on Space Heaters Appropriately
Space heaters can provide a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also costly to run. Rather than turning them on throughout the house, use them only when and where you really need extra heat. For the best energy savings, try to select energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
Add a Warm Layer Inside
Wearing the right clothing isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Put on a warm sweater, pull on fluffy socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It might not feel major, but you can save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your heat.
Look for 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 lower your bills.
Use Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can help in the winter too. Set your fans to spin clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to circulate heat downward into the room. This small adjustment improves heat distribution and reduces the need for extra heating.
Unplug Unused Electronics
Many appliances continue to draw power when plugged in, even when turned off. To cut down on “phantom” energy use, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Having power strips you can quickly switch off makes it easy.
Reduce Your Water Heater Temperature
A home’s water heater contributes to a large chunk of the monthly energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to save energy while still meeting your hot water needs for your household.
Explore New Smart Home Technology
Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs help optimize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to schedule temperature adjustments, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and tweak temperature settings on its own to balance comfort and efficiency.
Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs
Follow these practical tips to enjoy a cozy home this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our highly trained technicians offer efficient and dependable services to meet all your comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!
