How to Lower Electricity Bills During the Winter

As the temperature gets colder, the cost of keeping your home nice and cozy can really add up. But with the right simple adjustments, you can keep warm without draining your wallet. Whether you’re dealing with a cold snap in the South or subzero temperatures in New England, use these methods to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.

Seal Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doors are the most common culprits for cold air to enter. Even gaps around pipes and wires can let warm air leak out. Use weatherstripping, sealing compound or spray foam to fill these leaks. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Sealing a leaky home could save up to 20% on heating costs.

Plan Heating Schedules on the Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a good option to control your heating bills. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees lower when you’re gone or sleeping. Thanks to the programmed scheduling of smart thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to fit your comfort before you come home or get up in the morning. You won’t feel a difference, but you’ll quickly notice the savings—up to 10% a year. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, be sure to use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to keep efficiency high.

Use the Sun’s Free Heat

During the day, pull back drapes and shades on windows that face south to use the warmth from the sun. Then, close the window coverings after the sun goes down to keep that heat in and insulate against the nighttime cold.

Supplement Existing Insulation

If your home’s attic or walls don’t have enough insulation, your home is leaking warmth. Adding more insulation acts as a protective barrier, trapping more heat inside and potentially lowering heating bills by up to 15%. Even if your home has existing insulation, ensuring you have ENOUGH can further enhance your home’s heat retention.

Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance for Your Heating System

Routine HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which reduces energy costs. Arrange an annual checkup with a service technician every fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. In the meantime, swap out the air filter approximately every one to three months. A clean filter restores airflow and cuts down on energy usage to keep you warm.

Rely on Space Heaters Sparingly

Space heaters can provide a fast way to heat, but they’re also high-energy consumers. As an alternative to trying to add one in every room, use them only when and where you really need them. For the best energy savings, try to select 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! Put on a warm sweater, a pair of warm 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 may save up to 3% on your heating bill for each degree you lower the thermostat.

Look for High Efficiency Appliances

Older heating and cooling systems consume more electricity. If your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, choose an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to cut down on costs.

Use the Winter Setting on Your Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling off in the summer. Adjust your fans to spin clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This quick and easy change improves heat distribution and reduces the need for extra heating.

Unplug What Electronics and Devices You Can

Many appliances continue to use electricity when plugged in, even when powered down. 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 makes it easy.

Adjust the Temperature of Your Water Heater

A home’s water heater contributes to a significant portion of your energy bill, second only to the HVAC. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to save energy while still delivering hot water for your household.

Invest in Smart Home Technology

Advanced smart home technology for thermostats and lighting maximize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to set your thermostat to fit your routine, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even automatically recognize your preferences and self-adjust for comfort to maximize savings without sacrificing warmth.

Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs

Follow these practical tips to keep your living space cozy this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system running smoothly, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our Expert technicians offer efficient and dependable services to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!