How to Save Money on Electricity Bills During the Winter

As the temperature drops, the price of keeping your home nice and cozy can really add up. But with the right simple adjustments, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dealing with a cold snap in the South or subzero temperatures in New England, follow these tips to cut energy costs in winter.

Look for and Seal Air Leaks

Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most likely spots for letting in drafts. Even gaps around pipes and wires can let warm air escape. Use weatherstripping, sealing compound or expanding foam to seal these spaces. Also, remember to close the fireplace damper when not in use. Fully addressing drafts in your home may save up to 20% on heating costs.

Use the Scheduling Feature on 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 reduce it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re not home or in bed. With the automatic management of programmable thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you come home or get up in the morning. You shouldn’t lose any warmth, but you’ll definitely notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to ensure energy efficiency.

Draw on the Sun’s Free Heat

During daylight hours, pull back drapes and shades on south-facing windows to use the natural heat from the sun. Then, draw the curtains when the sun sets to trap that warmth inside and prevent the nighttime cold.

Supplement Existing Insulation

If your home’s attic or walls aren’t properly insulated, your home is losing heat. 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, 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 keeps your heating system running efficiently, which lowers expenses. Plan an annual checkup with a maintenance technician every fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. In the meantime, swap out the air filter around every one to three months. A fresh air filter restores full air circulation 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 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.

Bundle Up Inside

Wearing the right clothing isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, but every little bit helps! Put on a warm sweater, some thick socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and lower the temperature by a few degrees. It might not sound like much, but you could save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you turn down your heat.

Stick to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Outdated home utilities are much less efficient. If your furnace or water heater is due for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to lower your bills.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling off in the summer. Set your fans to spin clockwise on a gentle spin 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 electronics still use electricity when plugged in, even when powered down. To stop this hidden power drain, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips makes it easy.

Adjust the Temperature of Your Water Heater

The water heater is responsible for a significant portion of the monthly energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to cut power use while still delivering hot water for your household.

Make the Most of Smart Home Technology

Advanced smart home technology for thermostats and lighting maximize electricity usage. Not only can you 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 maximize savings without sacrificing warmth.

Keep Your Home Warm Without Draining Your Wallet

Use these helpful suggestions to keep your living space cozy this winter while reducing your energy expenses. To help keep your heating system in peak shape, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our Expert technicians deliver fast, reliable and long-lasting solutions to meet all your comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!