How to Save Money on 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 months of cold in New England, use these methods to cut energy costs in winter.
1. Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
While the sun is out, pull back drapes and shades on windows that face south to take advantage of the natural heat from the sun. Then, shut the blinds after the sun goes down to keep that heat in and insulate against the nighttime cold.
2. Use the Winter Setting on Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can help in the winter too. Make sure the fans are set to turn clockwise on a low setting in the winter to circulate heat downward into the room. This small adjustment circulates the heat more evenly and lessens heating demand.
3. Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Drafty windows and doors are the most common culprits for cold air to enter. Even gaps around pipes and wires can let warm air seep out. Use weatherstripping, sealant or spray foam to fill these leaks. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Properly sealing all the air leaks may save up to 20% on heating costs.
4. Make the Most of Smart Home Technology
Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs maximize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to program a smart thermostat based on your schedule, but you can access it via your phone or tablet. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and self-adjust for comfort to combine efficiency with comfort.
5. Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in
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. Using switchable power strips helps keep it from being a hassle.
6. Use the Scheduling Feature on Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a good option to control your heating bills. Adjust the setting to around 68 degrees F when you’re awake, and reduce it 7 to 10 degrees down when you’re gone or in bed. Because of the automatic adjustments of smart thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to fit your comfort before you come home or wake up in the morning. You shouldn’t feel a difference, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat that’s compatible to ensure energy efficiency.
7. Add Insulation
If your attic, walls or floors lack sufficient insulation, 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 potentially lowering heating bills by up to 15%. Even if your home has existing insulation, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further increase energy efficiency.
8. Cozy Up Inside
Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for turning down your heat, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, some thick socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It may not sound like much, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you lower the thermostat.
9. Reduce the Temperature of Your Water Heater
The water heater contributes to a significant portion of the monthly energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still providing hot water for your household.
10. Use Space Heaters Appropriately
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, use them only when and where you really need them. For the best energy savings, try to look for energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
11. Stick to High-Efficiency Appliances
Outdated home utilities use more energy. Once your furnace or water heater is due for an upgrade, opt for an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.
12. Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System
Preventive HVAC maintenance keeps your heating system running efficiently, which lowers expenses. Schedule an annual checkup with an HVAC technician every fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. In the meantime, replace the air filter approximately every one to three months. A new filter restores airflow and lowers energy consumption to keep your home warm.
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 running smoothly, rely on Motta Heating and Air Conditioning. Our Expert technicians offer efficient and dependable services to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For Expert service you can trust, contact us today!
