How to Reduce Your Electricity Bills in Winter

As the temperature falls, the cost of keeping your home nice and cozy can really feel overwhelming. But with a few smart updates, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re facing a sudden chill in the South or snowstorms in New England, try these suggestions to cut energy costs in winter.

1. Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat

While the sun is out, let in lots of natural light on south-facing windows to use the natural heat from the sun. Then, close the window coverings once the sun goes down to trap that warmth inside and prevent the nighttime cold.

2. Take Advantage of Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling off in the summer. Adjust your fans to spin clockwise on a gentle spin in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This quick and easy change spreads warmth more evenly throughout the space and cuts down on additional heating.

3. Look for and Seal Air Leaks

Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most obvious places for the cold to slip in. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air seep out. Use weatherstripping, sealant or expanding foam to seal these spaces. Also, don’t forget 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. Explore New Smart Home Technology

Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs maximize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to program a smart thermostat based on your schedule, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and tweak temperature settings on its own to combine efficiency with comfort.

5. Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can

Many devices still use electricity when plugged in, even when switched off. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, unplug devices 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.

6. Use the Scheduling Feature on Your Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to manage your heating bills. Set your thermostat 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 asleep. Thanks to the automatic management of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to fit your comfort before you make it home or start your day. You won’t notice a change in comfort, but you’ll definitely notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat model compatible with them to maintain efficiency.

7. Add More Insulation

If your attic, walls or floors 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 has existing insulation, using better insulation can further increase energy efficiency.

8. Bundle Up Inside

Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Add a nice, thick sweater, pull on fluffy socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It may not sound like much, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you lower the thermostat.

9. Adjust the Temperature of Your Water Heater

A home’s water heater is responsible for a large chunk of the monthly energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to save energy while still delivering hot water for your household.

10. Rely on Space Heaters Sparingly

Space heaters can deliver a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also high-energy consumers. Instead of using them in every room, 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.

11. Stick to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older heating and cooling systems consume more electricity. Once your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, opt for an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.

12. Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System

Regular HVAC maintenance helps your system perform well, which lowers expenses. Schedule an annual checkup with a service technician during the fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. During the rest of the year, swap out the air filter roughly every one to three months. A new filter restores airflow while it also lowers energy consumption to keep your home 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 running smoothly, turn to Sure Temp Air Conditioning. Our Expert technicians offer fast, reliable and long-lasting solutions to meet everyone’s comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!