How to Save Money on Electricity Bills During the Winter

As the temperature falls, the cost of keeping your home warm can really add up. But with the right simple adjustments, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re facing a cold snap in the South or blizzards in New England, try these suggestions to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.

Seal Air Leaks

Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most common culprits for the cold to slip in. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air leak out. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or foam sealant to block these gaps. Also, remember to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Sealing a leaky home can save up to 20% on heating costs.

Plan Heating Schedules on the Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a good option to manage your heating bills. Adjust the setting to around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and reduce it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re away or sleeping. With the automatic management of smart thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you come home or start your day. You shouldn’t notice a change in comfort, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% annually. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat model compatible with them to keep efficiency high.

Draw on 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, close the window coverings once the sun goes down to keep that heat in and block out the nighttime cold.

Supplement Existing Insulation

If your floors and attic 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 possibly reducing your heating costs by up to 15%. Even if your home already has some insulation, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further increase energy efficiency.

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 service technician during the fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. In the meantime, replace the air filter roughly every one to three months. A clean filter restores airflow and cuts down on energy usage to keep you warm.

Use Space Heaters Wisely

Space heaters can offer a fast way to heat, but they’re also big energy guzzlers. Rather than trying to add one in every room, use them only when and where you really need them. For the best energy savings, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.

Cozy Up Inside

Wearing the right clothing isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, 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 may not seem significant, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you lower the thermostat.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older heating and cooling systems are much less efficient. Once your furnace or water heater is due for an upgrade, select an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Adjust your fans to spin clockwise on a low setting in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This small adjustment improves heat distribution and cuts down on additional heating.

Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can

Many electronics continue to draw power when left connected, even when turned off. To stop this hidden power drain, disconnect electronics like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips helps keep it from being a hassle.

Lower Your Water Heater Temperature

A home’s water heater is responsible for a major part of your energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still providing hot water for your household.

Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology

Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs help optimize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to program a smart thermostat based on your schedule, but you can control it from anywhere. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and self-adjust for comfort to balance comfort and efficiency.

Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs

Use these helpful suggestions to enjoy a cozy home this winter while reducing your energy expenses. To help keep your heating system performing well, choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our Expert technicians deliver fast, reliable and long-lasting solutions to meet all your comfort needs. For Expert service you can trust, contact us today!