Why is heating your home so expensive?
Heating your home may be more expensive than cooling it during the summer, depending on where you live. Another factor that can increase energy consumption during the winter is the increased number of hours you spend indoors. When you factor in the long, dark nights as well as the numerous holidays that fall during this season, it’s easy to see how you might use more energy than usual.
Electricity savings in the winter are important for financial and environmental reasons. Fortunately, there are several strategies that you can use to reduce the energy consumption during the winter, such as the next 12 tips shared in this video.
Tip #1. Seal any cracks or gaps in your windows and doors.
Sealing up drafts or airstreams is a good first step if you’re looking for ways to reduce your electric bill this winter. In order to prevent heat loss, weatherstripping should be installed around all of your doors and windows. Furthermore, door sweeps help close the gap between your door’s bottom and the door frame.
Tip #2. Get a smart thermostat.
One cutting-edge approach to reducing heating costs in the winter is to install a smart thermostat. You can save money by adjusting the times of day and week that your heating system operates with the help of a programmable thermostat. The thermostat can be set to a lower temperature while you sleep or are away and then set it back to a more comfortable temperature before your return or when you most need it.
Tip #3. Check your heater at least once a year.
Make sure your heating system is clean and ready to go before the cold weather sets in each winter by scheduling an annual checkup in the fall. A breakdown in the middle of the winter can be inconvenient, uncomfortable, and costly, but an early checkup can help you avoid all that. Because a well-maintained heater uses less energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, annual inspections are a great way to extend the life of your system and save money on your heating bills during the colder months.
Tip #4. Be sure to inspect your home's insulation.
An easy and low-cost way to lower your electric bill during the colder months is to invest in proper insulation. Putting insulation in the attic is a good first step because it helps retain heat in your house. Walls are another common route for heat to escape from your home, especially near outlets and other points where utilities enter the building. Taking extra precautions around plumbing is essential in cold climates to prevent heat loss and pipe freeze-ups or burst.
Tip #5. Don't do laundry unless it's a full load.
By only ever doing full loads, you can save a lot of money on your utility bills. It takes the same amount of energy to run a small, partial load of laundry as it does a full load. With multiple loads, you’ll waste more energy and water. It’s more efficient to only turn on your machine when you have a full load. If you wash and dry your clothes less frequently, you can reduce the amount of hot water you use. The money you save may surprise you.
Tip #6. Protect your pipes by wrapping them in insulation.
The hot water pipes in your home may be a source of energy loss. The amount of heat lost is proportional to the distance the water has to travel. In some cases, adding insulation to hot water pipes can increase the water’s temperature by as much as 4 degrees Fahrenheit. Insulated pipes not only provide hotter water but also reduce the amount of time spent running the water while waiting for it to heat up for a shower.
Tip #7. Put a timer on your Christmas lights to prevent them from staying on all night.
You shouldn’t leave your holiday lights on all night, but it’s understandable if you forget or don’t want to go out to turn them off. By using smart plugs to control when holiday lights come on and off, you can reduce your holiday energy bill and help preserve the environment.
Tip #8. Unplug any devices that are not in use.
It is common for many home appliances and electronics to continue consuming power even when they are switched off. These unexpected power drains are the worst, particularly remote-controlled appliances, which spend most of their time in a standby state. Desktop computers and monitors, printers, TVs, microwaves, and game consoles also consume a lot of power. When not in use, unplugging electronics can help you save energy.
Tip #9. Replace CFL or incandescent bulbs with LED light bulbs.
For the same amount of light output from LED bulbs, you can reduce your winter electricity bill by as much as 80%. LEDs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 25 times longer, making them one of the most energy-efficient lighting options. Consider the number of light bulbs you use to get an idea of how quickly your savings could add up.
Tip #10. Get warm and cozy.
Setting the thermostat lower can help you save money on heating costs during the winter. Reduce the temperature of your home by a few degrees during the day and even more at night, as recommended by experts. Turning the thermostat back 7–10 degrees Fahrenheit for just 8 hours a day can cut your heating bill by as much as 10%. Turning up the thermostat isn’t the answer if you’re cold; instead, try layering up.
Tip #11. Use rugs on hard floors.
Rugs can act as a barrier between your bare feet and cold tile or concrete. Area rugs, especially when paired with a rug pad, are a stylish way to add coziness to any space. To further improve thermal insulation, rugs can be hung on the walls as well.
Tip #12. Open up the blinds during the day and close them before bedtime to maximize your solar heating.
The sun’s rays can help warm a room when they shine through the windows. You can lower your heating costs this winter by strategically opening and closing your drapes. Keep blinds open during the day and close them at night. Close all drapes and shades at night to reduce heat loss through windows and keep out the cold.
Saving electricity in the winter helps the environment and your wallet by reducing your monthly electric consumption. Places with harsh winters can benefit from investing in energy-saving measures. However, cold snaps can occur anywhere, even in the warmest regions. No matter where you live, you can use these tips to make life more comfortable and reduce your energy consumption.
