How to Lower Electricity Bills During the Winter

As the temperature drops, the cost of keeping your home nice and cozy can really pile up. But with a few smart updates, you can keep warm without spending a fortune. Whether you’re experiencing a sudden chill in the South or subzero temperatures in New England, use these methods to cut energy costs in winter.

Look for and Seal Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doors are the most obvious places for cold air to enter. Even gaps around pipes and wires can let warm air escape. Use weatherstripping, sealant 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 could save up to 20% on heating costs.

Plan Heating Schedules on the Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a good option to reduce your heating bills. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees F when you’re at home, and reduce it 7 to 10 degrees down when you’re not home or asleep. Thanks to the automatic adjustments of smart thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you get home or start your day. You shouldn’t notice a change in comfort, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat that’s compatible to ensure energy efficiency.

Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat

While the sun is out, open all the curtains and blinds on windows that face south to harness the natural heat from the sun. Then, draw the curtains once the sun sets to hold onto the warmth and prevent the nighttime cold.

Supplement Existing Insulation

If your home’s attic or walls don’t have enough 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 reducing your heating costs by up to 15%. Even if your home is insulated, using better insulation can further increase energy efficiency.

Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System

Routine HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which reduces energy costs. Plan an annual checkup with a service technician each fall to help your system run at its peak all winter. During the rest of the year, change the air filter roughly every one to three months. A new filter restores airflow and cuts down on energy usage to keep your home warm.

Use Space Heaters Sparingly

Space heaters can deliver a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also big energy guzzlers. Rather than using them in every room, use them only when and where you really need them. For even higher efficiency, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.

Add a Warm Layer Inside

Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for reducing indoor heating, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, pull on fluffy socks and keep a throw blanket nearby. Then, go ahead and adjust the setting by a few degrees. It might not sound like much, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you drop the temperature.

Stick to High Efficiency Appliances

Older heating and cooling systems consume more electricity. When 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 can help in the winter too. Set your fans to turn clockwise on a gentle spin in the winter to redistribute warm air into the room. This small adjustment circulates the heat more evenly and cuts down on additional heating.

Unplug Unused Electronics

Many appliances continue to draw power when left connected, even when powered down. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Using switchable power strips makes this tip easier to follow.

Reduce Your Water Heater Temperature

A home’s water heater accounts for a significant portion of the monthly energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to cut power use while still providing hot water for your household.

Make the Most of Smart Home Technology

Smart thermostats, smart lighting and other energy-saving devices help optimize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to schedule temperature adjustments, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and self-adjust for comfort to maximize savings without sacrificing warmth.

Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking the Bank

Use these helpful suggestions to keep your living space cozy this winter while saving on electricity bills. To help keep your heating system running smoothly, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our highly trained technicians deliver quick and durable fixes to meet all your comfort needs. For Expert service you can trust, contact us today!