How to Cut Your 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 strategic changes, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re experiencing a cold snap in the South or blizzards in New England, follow these tips to save money on electricity bills in winter.
1. Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
While the sun is out, open all the curtains and blinds on windows that face south to use the warmth from the sun. Then, shut the blinds after the sun goes down to keep that heat in and insulate against the nighttime cold.
2. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling off in the summer. Make sure the fans are set to spin clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This quick and easy change improves heat distribution and lessens heating demand.
3. Find and Close Any Air Leaks
Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most common culprits for cold air to enter. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air leak out. Use weatherstripping, sealing compound or foam sealant to fill these leaks. 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.
4. Make the Most of Smart Home Technology
Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs improve electricity usage. Not only can you set your thermostat to fit your routine, but you can access it via your phone or tablet. Some can even adapt to your behavior and self-adjust for comfort to maximize savings without sacrificing warmth.
5. Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in
Many electronics still use electricity when plugged in, even when powered down. 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.
6. Program Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a useful accessory to reduce your heating bills. Program it for around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re away or in bed. With the automatic management of smart thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you make it home or get up in the morning. You shouldn’t feel a difference, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, make sure to use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to maintain efficiency.
7. Put in More Insulation
If your attic, walls or floors lack sufficient insulation, your home is losing heat. Adding more insulation acts as a protective barrier, locking in warmth and potentially lowering heating bills by up to 15%. Even if your home has existing insulation, using better insulation can further boost your energy savings.
8. Add a Warm Layer Inside
Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, some thick socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It may not seem significant, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you drop the temperature.
9. Reduce Your Water Heater Temperature
The water heater contributes to a major part of each month’s energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to save energy while still providing hot water for your household.
10. Rely on Space Heaters Appropriately
Space heaters can deliver a fast way to heat, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Rather than turning them on throughout the house, use them only when and where you really need them. For maximum savings, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
11. Seek Out Energy-Efficient Appliances
Older heating and cooling systems use more energy. When your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.
12. Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System
Routine HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which reduces energy costs. Plan an annual checkup with a maintenance technician each 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 airflow while it also cuts down on energy usage to keep you warm.
Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking the Bank
Try these energy-saving strategies to keep your living space cozy this winter while reducing your energy expenses. To help keep your heating system performing well, rely on Canyon State Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing. Our certified technicians deliver quick and durable fixes to meet all your comfort needs. For Expert service you can trust, contact us today!
