How to Reduce 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 simple adjustments, you can keep warm without spending a fortune. Whether you’re experiencing a cold front in the South or snowstorms in New England, try these suggestions to cut energy costs in winter.

1. Use the Sun’s Free Heat

While the sun is out, open all the curtains and blinds on windows that face south to harness the natural heat from the sun. Then, close the window coverings once the sun sets to keep that heat in and prevent the nighttime cold.

2. Use Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Make sure the fans are set to spin clockwise on a gentle spin in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This quick and easy change improves heat distribution and cuts down on additional heating.

3. Seal Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doors are the most common culprits for the cold to slip in. Even gaps around pipes and wires can let warm air leak out. Use weatherstripping, sealant or spray foam to block these gaps. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Sealing a leaky home can save up to 20% on heating costs.

4. Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology

Smart thermostats, smart lighting and other energy-saving devices improve electricity usage. Not only is it possible to schedule temperature adjustments, but you can control it from anywhere. Some can even adapt to your behavior and tweak temperature settings on its own to balance comfort and efficiency.

5. Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in

Many devices still draw power when plugged in, even when powered down. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips makes this tip easier to follow.

6. Program Your Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to reduce your heating bills. Program it for around 68 degrees F when you’re at home, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees down when you’re away or asleep. With the programmed scheduling 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 lose any warmth, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat model compatible with them to keep efficiency high.

7. Add Insulation

If your attic, walls or floors lack sufficient insulation, your home is leaking warmth. Adding more insulation reinforces the layer between indoor and outdoor air, trapping more heat inside and possibly cutting your heating expenses by up to 15%. Even if your home already has some insulation, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further increase energy efficiency.

8. Cozy Up Inside

Layering up isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Put on a warm sweater, pull on fluffy socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. 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. Reduce Your Water Heater Temperature

The water heater is responsible for a large chunk of each month’s energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still providing hot water for your household.

10. Rely on Space Heaters Wisely

Space heaters can offer a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also high-energy consumers. As an alternative to trying to add one 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. Look for High-Efficiency Appliances

Outdated home utilities are much less efficient. When your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to reduce expenses.

12. Don’t Put Off Maintenance for Your Heating System

Routine HVAC maintenance keeps your heating system running efficiently, which reduces energy costs. Schedule an annual checkup with an HVAC technician every fall to ensure optimal performance all winter. Between these visits, swap out the air filter roughly every one to three months. A new filter restores airflow and reduces the energy your system uses 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 in peak shape, turn to Hays Cooling, Heating & Plumbing. Our certified technicians deliver efficient and dependable services to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For Expert service you can trust, contact us today!