How to Reduce Electricity Bills in Winter

As the temperature gets colder, the price of keeping your home nice and cozy can really add up. But with some simple adjustments, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re experiencing a sudden chill in the South or months of cold in New England, use these methods to cut energy costs in winter.

Seal Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doors are the most obvious places for cold air to enter. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air seep out. Use weatherstripping, sealing compound or expanding foam to seal these spaces. Also, remember to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Properly sealing all the air leaks can save up to 20% on heating costs.

Use the Scheduling Feature on Your 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 programmed scheduling of smart thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to where you like it before you get home or wake up in the morning. You shouldn’t lose any warmth, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat that’s compatible to maintain efficiency.

Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat

During the day, pull back drapes and shades on south-facing windows to use the warmth from the sun. Then, close the window coverings after the sun goes down to hold onto the warmth and prevent 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 acts as a protective barrier, keeping more warmth inside and potentially lowering heating bills by up to 15%. Even if your home already has some insulation, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further increase energy efficiency.

Maintain Your Heating System

Regular HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which saves money. Plan an annual checkup with an HVAC technician during the fall to ensure optimal performance all winter. Between these visits, swap out the air filter around every one to three months. A fresh air filter restores airflow while it also cuts down on energy usage to keep you warm.

Rely on Space Heaters Appropriately

Space heaters can provide a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also costly to run. As an alternative to turning them on throughout the house, only turn them on when and where you really need the extra heat. For maximum savings, try to select energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.

Bundle Up Inside

Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, but every little bit helps! Add a nice, thick sweater, pull on fluffy socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It may not seem significant, but you can save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you drop the temperature.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older appliances and HVAC systems are much less efficient. 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 be used year-round. Set your fans to turn clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to circulate heat downward into the room. This simple trick improves heat distribution and reduces the need for extra heating.

Unplug Unused Electronics

Many appliances continue to use electricity when left connected, even when switched off. To stop this hidden power drain, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Having power strips you can quickly switch off helps keep it from being a hassle.

Reduce the Temperature of Your Water Heater

A home’s water heater is responsible for a large chunk of each month’s energy bill, only surpassed by heating and cooling systems. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still providing hot water for your household.

Explore New Smart Home Technology

Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs maximize electricity usage. Not only can you schedule temperature adjustments, but you can access it via your phone or tablet. Some can even automatically recognize your preferences and adjust the temperature automatically to balance comfort and efficiency.

Keep Your Home Warm Without Draining Your Wallet

Follow these practical tips to stay warm and comfortable this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system running smoothly, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our certified technicians deliver efficient and dependable services to meet all your comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!