How to Cut Your Electricity Bills in Winter
As the temperature gets colder, the price of keeping your home warm can really pile up. But with some smart updates, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re facing a sudden chill in the South or subzero temperatures in New England, follow these tips to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.
1. Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
During daylight hours, open all the curtains and blinds on windows that face south to take advantage of the natural heat from the sun. Then, shut the blinds once the sun goes down to trap that warmth inside and prevent the nighttime cold.
2. Use Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Set your fans to turn clockwise on a gentle spin in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This quick and easy change spreads warmth more evenly throughout the space and lessens heating demand.
3. Seal Air Leaks
Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most common culprits for letting in drafts. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air leak out. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or foam sealant to fill these leaks. Also, remember to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Fully addressing drafts in your home may save up to 20% on heating costs.
4. Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology
Advanced smart home technology for thermostats and lighting maximize electricity usage. Not only can you program a smart thermostat based on your schedule, but you can control it from anywhere. Some can even automatically recognize your preferences and self-adjust for comfort to combine efficiency with comfort.
5. Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can
Many appliances still draw power when plugged in, even when powered down. 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 helps keep it from being a hassle.
6. Plan Heating Schedules on the Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a good option to control your heating bills. Adjust the setting 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 in bed. Because of the automatic management of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to fit your comfort before you make it home or wake up in the morning. You won’t feel a difference, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to keep efficiency high.
7. Add Insulation
If your home’s attic or walls 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 cutting your heating expenses by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further increase energy efficiency.
8. Add a Warm Layer Inside
Layering up isn’t the most fun option for turning down your heat, but every little bit helps! Add a nice, thick sweater, some thick socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It might not seem significant, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your heat.
9. Adjust the Temperature of Your Water Heater
Your water heater contributes to a significant portion of each month’s energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to cut power use while still delivering hot water for your household.
10. Rely on Space Heaters Wisely
Space heaters can provide a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Instead of using them in every room, use them only when and where you really need the extra heat. For the best energy savings, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
11. Stick to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Older appliances and HVAC systems consume more electricity. When your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to cut down on costs.
12. Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System
Preventative HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which lowers expenses. Plan an annual checkup with a service technician during the fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. In the meantime, change the air filter roughly every one to three months. A new filter restores airflow and cuts down on energy usage to keep you warm.
Keep Your Home Warm Without Draining Your Wallet
Follow these practical tips to keep your living space cozy this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system performing well, choose Arundel Cooling. Our Expert technicians offer fast, reliable and long-lasting solutions to meet all your comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!
