How to Reduce Electricity Bills This Winter

As the temperature gets colder, the price of keeping your home warm can really add up. But with some strategic changes, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dealing with a cold snap in the South or blizzards in New England, try these suggestions to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.

Look for and Seal Air Leaks

Poorly hung doors and drafty windows are the most likely spots for the cold to slip in. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air leak out. Use weatherstripping, sealant 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.

Program Your Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to control your heating bills. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees F when you’re at home, and drop it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re not home or in bed. Thanks to the automatic management of programmable thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you get home or start your day. You shouldn’t feel a difference, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat that’s compatible to maintain efficiency.

Use the Sun’s Free Heat

While the sun is out, pull back drapes and shades on windows that face south to harness the warmth from the sun. Then, close the window coverings once the sun sets to hold onto the warmth and prevent the nighttime cold.

Add Insulation

If your floors and attic don’t have enough insulation, 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 already has some insulation, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further enhance your home’s heat retention.

Don’t Put Off Maintenance for Your Heating System

Routine HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which lowers expenses. Plan an annual checkup with a service technician each fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. In the meantime, replace the air filter on average every one to three months. A fresh air filter restores airflow and reduces the energy your system uses to keep your home warm.

Rely on Space Heaters Appropriately

Space heaters can provide a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Rather than using them in every room, limit their use to when and where you really need them. For maximum savings, try to select energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.

Cozy Up Inside

Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for turning down your heat, but every little bit helps! Put on a warm sweater, pull on fluffy socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and turn down the heat by a few degrees. It might not seem significant, but you can save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you lower the thermostat.

Look for Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older heating and cooling systems consume more electricity. If your furnace or water heater is due for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to reduce expenses.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans can help in the winter too. Set your fans to rotate clockwise on a gentle spin in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This quick and easy change spreads warmth more evenly throughout the space and cuts down on additional heating.

Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in

Many appliances continue to 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. Having power strips you can quickly switch off makes this tip easier to follow.

Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature

A home’s water heater is responsible for a large chunk of the monthly energy bill, only surpassed by heating and cooling systems. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still delivering hot water for your household.

Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology

Smart thermostats, smart lighting and other energy-saving devices improve 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 adapt to your behavior and adjust the temperature automatically to combine efficiency with comfort.

Keep Your Home Warm Without Draining Your Wallet

Use these helpful suggestions to keep your living space cozy this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system performing well, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our highly trained technicians deliver efficient and dependable services to meet everyone’s comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!