How to Lower Electricity Bills in Winter
As the temperature falls, the price 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 subzero temperatures in New England, use these methods to save money on electricity bills in winter.
Seal Air Leaks
Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most obvious places for the cold to slip in. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air seep out. Use weatherstripping, 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 may save up to 20% on heating costs.
Program Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a good option to reduce your heating bills. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees F when you’re awake, and drop it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re away or sleeping. Thanks to the automatic management of smart thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to where you like it before you come home or start your day. You won’t lose any warmth, but you’ll definitely notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat that’s compatible to ensure energy efficiency.
Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
During daylight hours, open all the curtains and blinds on windows that face south to use the heat and warmth from the sun. Then, draw the curtains once the sun sets to trap that warmth inside and block out the nighttime cold.
Supplement Existing Insulation
If your floors and attic lack sufficient insulation, your home is leaking warmth. Adding more insulation reinforces the layer between indoor and outdoor air, locking in warmth and possibly lowering heating bills by up to 15%. Even if your home has existing insulation, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further boost your energy savings.
Maintain Your Heating System
Preventive HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which lowers expenses. Plan an annual checkup with an HVAC technician each fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. In the meantime, replace the air filter around every one to three months. A new filter restores full air circulation and cuts down on energy usage to keep you warm.
Rely on Space Heaters Sparingly
Space heaters can provide a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also costly to run. Instead of turning them on throughout the house, use them only when and where you really need extra heat. For maximum savings, try to look for 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! Add a nice, thick sweater, a pair of warm socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and turn down the heat by a few degrees. It might not sound like much, but you could save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you drop the temperature.
Look for High Efficiency Appliances
Outdated home utilities use more energy. If your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, opt for an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.
Use Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Adjust your fans to turn clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This simple trick improves heat distribution and cuts down on additional heating.
Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can
Many electronics continue to use electricity when left connected, even when turned off. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, remove plugs 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.
Reduce the Temperature of Your Water Heater
Your water heater contributes to a large chunk of each month’s energy bill, only surpassed by heating and cooling systems. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still providing 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 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 enjoy a cozy home this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system performing well, turn to 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!
