How to Lower Electricity Bills in Winter

As the temperature drops, the cost of keeping your home warm can really pile up. But with the right strategic changes, you can keep warm without draining your wallet. Whether you’re dealing with a cold snap in the South or months of cold in New England, use these methods to reduce your electricity expenses in winter.

Seal Air Leaks

Windows and doors with constant drafts are the most likely spots for the cold to slip in. Even unsealed wiring and plumbing penetrations can let warm air seep out. Use weatherstripping, sealing compound or foam sealant to fill these leaks. Also, don’t forget 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 good option to reduce your heating bills. Program it for around 68 degrees F when you’re at home, and drop it 7 to 10 degrees below that when you’re away or asleep. Because of the programmed scheduling of programmable thermostats, you can have the heat come back up to where you like it before you make it home or wake up in the morning. You shouldn’t lose any warmth, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% each year. If you have a heat pump or radiant floor heating, make sure to use a thermostat capable of working with these systems to ensure energy efficiency.

Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat

During daylight hours, open all the curtains and blinds on south-facing windows to take advantage of the natural heat from the sun. Then, draw the curtains once the sun sets to hold onto the warmth and block out the nighttime cold.

Add 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 has existing insulation, upgrading to higher-rated materials can further increase energy efficiency.

Don’t Put Off Maintenance for Your Heating System

Regular HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which lowers expenses. Arrange an annual checkup with a service technician every fall to ensure optimal performance all winter. In the meantime, change the air filter on average every one to three months. A clean filter restores airflow and cuts down on energy usage to keep you warm.

Rely on Space Heaters Appropriately

Space heaters can deliver a quick burst of warmth, but they’re also costly to run. As an alternative to trying to add one in every room, use them only when and where you really need them. For maximum savings, try to stick to energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.

Cozy Up Inside

Dressing for the season isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Put on a warm sweater, some thick socks and use a blanket. Then, go ahead and adjust the setting by a few degrees. It may not sound like much, but you may save up to 3% on your heating bill for every degree you drop the temperature.

Stick to High Efficiency Appliances

Outdated home utilities consume more electricity. When your furnace or water heater is ready for an upgrade, opt for an ENERGY STAR®-certified model to reduce expenses.

Use Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Adjust your fans to turn clockwise on a slow speed in the winter to circulate heat downward into the room. This quick and easy change spreads warmth more evenly throughout the space and lessens heating demand.

Don’t Leave All Electronics Plugged in

Many electronics still draw power when left connected, even when powered down. To cut down on “phantom” energy use, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Having power strips you can quickly switch off makes it easy.

Reduce the Temperature of Your Water Heater

A home’s water heater accounts for a significant portion of the monthly energy bill, only surpassed by heating and cooling systems. Set the temperature to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still meeting your hot water needs for your household.

Invest in Smart Home Technology

Innovative smart devices like smart thermostats and light bulbs help optimize electricity usage. Not only is it possible to set your thermostat to fit your routine, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even adapt to your behavior and tweak temperature settings on its own to maximize savings without sacrificing warmth.

Keep Your Home Warm Without High Costs

Try these energy-saving strategies to stay warm and comfortable this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system performing well, rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our highly trained technicians offer quick and durable fixes to meet you and your family’s comfort needs. For reliable assistance, contact us today!