How to Save Money on Electricity Bills in Winter

As the temperature falls, the cost of keeping your home warm can really pile up. But with some simple adjustments, you can keep warm without spending a fortune. Whether you’re facing a sudden chill in the South or subzero temperatures in New England, try these suggestions to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.

Find and Close Any Air Leaks

Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most obvious places for cold air to enter. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air escape. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or expanding foam to block these gaps. 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.

Use the Scheduling Feature on Your Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a useful accessory to control your heating bills. Program it for around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and reduce it 7 to 10 degrees below that when you’re not home or asleep. With the programmed scheduling of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to where you like it before you come home or get up in the morning. You shouldn’t lose any warmth, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, make sure to 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 south-facing windows to use the warmth from the sun. Then, draw the curtains after the sun sets to keep that heat in and insulate against the nighttime cold.

Supplement Existing Insulation

If your floors and attic lack sufficient insulation, your home is leaking warmth. 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, using better insulation can further boost your energy savings.

Don’t Put Off Maintenance for Your Heating System

Preventative HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which reduces energy costs. Arrange an annual checkup with a maintenance technician during the fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. Between these visits, change the air filter approximately every one to three months. A fresh air filter restores airflow and lowers energy consumption to keep your home warm.

Use Space Heaters Sparingly

Space heaters can deliver a fast way to heat, but they’re also big energy guzzlers. Rather than turning them on throughout the house, only turn them on when and where you really need the extra heat. For the best energy savings, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.

Add a Warm Layer Inside

Layering up 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 adjust the setting by a few degrees. It may not seem significant, but you could save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down your heat.

Seek Out High Efficiency Appliances

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

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans can help in the winter too. Adjust your fans to rotate clockwise on a low setting in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This small adjustment circulates the heat more evenly and lessens heating demand.

Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in

Many appliances continue to consume energy when plugged in, even when turned off. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, disconnect electronics like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips makes this tip easier to follow.

Lower the Temperature of Your Water Heater

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

Make the Most of Smart Home Technology

Advanced smart home technology for thermostats and lighting help optimize electricity usage. Not only can you schedule temperature adjustments, but you can access it via your phone or tablet. Some can even adapt to your behavior and adjust the temperature automatically to balance comfort and efficiency.

Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs

Use these helpful suggestions to keep your living space cozy this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our Expert technicians provide efficient and dependable services to meet all your comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!