How to Reduce Your Electricity Bills in Winter
As the temperature drops, the price of keeping your home nice and cozy can really add up. But with some smart updates, you can keep warm without draining your wallet. Whether you’re dealing with a cold front in the South or subzero temperatures in New England, try these suggestions to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.
1. Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat
During the day, let in lots of natural light on windows that face south to harness the warmth from the sun. Then, shut the blinds after the sun goes down to trap that warmth inside and block out the nighttime cold.
2. Take Advantage of Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat
Ceiling fans can help in the winter too. Adjust your fans to spin clockwise on a low setting in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This small adjustment improves heat distribution and cuts down on additional heating.
3. Look for and Seal Air Leaks
Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most likely spots for letting in drafts. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air seep out. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or expanding foam to seal these spaces. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Properly sealing all the air leaks could save up to 20% on heating costs.
4. Invest in Smart Home Technology
Smart thermostats, smart lighting and other energy-saving devices help optimize electricity usage. Not only can you program a smart thermostat based on your schedule, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and self-adjust for comfort to balance comfort and efficiency.
5. Unplug Unused Electronics
Many appliances still draw power when left connected, even when turned off. 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 makes it easy.
6. Program Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a good option to manage your heating bills. Program it for around 68 degrees F when you’re awake, and reduce it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re gone or asleep. With the automatic management of smart thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you get home or get up in the morning. You won’t feel a difference, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% annually. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat model compatible with them to ensure energy efficiency.
7. Supplement Existing Insulation
If your attic, walls or floors aren’t properly insulated, your home is losing heat. Adding more insulation acts as a protective barrier, keeping more warmth inside and possibly cutting your heating expenses by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further enhance your home’s heat retention.
8. Add a Warm Layer Inside
Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, 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 might not sound like much, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you drop the temperature.
9. Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
A home’s water heater accounts for a large chunk of your energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Lower the temperature to 120 degrees to save energy while still delivering hot water for your household.
10. Rely on Space Heaters Wisely
Space heaters can deliver a fast way to heat, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Rather than using them in every room, limit their use to when and where you really need extra heat. For maximum savings, try to look for energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.
11. Look for Energy-Efficient Appliances
Outdated home utilities use more energy. Once your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, select 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 lowers expenses. Schedule an annual checkup with a maintenance technician every fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. During the rest of the year, replace the air filter around every one to three months. A clean filter restores full air circulation and lowers energy consumption to keep you warm.
Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs
Use these helpful suggestions to enjoy a cozy home this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system performing well, rely on McLoughlin Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Our Expert technicians deliver efficient and dependable services to meet everyone’s comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!
