How to Cut Your Electricity Bills in Winter

As the temperature drops, the cost of keeping your home warm can really add up. But with a few smart updates, you can keep warm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dealing with a cold front in the South or subzero temperatures in New England, try these suggestions to cut energy costs in winter.

1. Utilize the Sun’s Free Heat

While the sun is out, let in lots of natural light on south-facing windows to take advantage of the natural heat from the sun. Then, draw the curtains after the sun goes down to hold onto the warmth and insulate against the nighttime cold.

2. Take Advantage of Ceiling Fans to Redistribute Heat

Ceiling fans can be used year-round. Adjust your fans to rotate clockwise on a low setting in the winter to push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room. This small adjustment improves heat distribution and lessens heating demand.

3. Look for and Seal Air Leaks

Poorly hung doors and drafty windows are the most common culprits for the cold to slip in. Even spaces for wiring and plumbing can let warm air leak out. Use insulation strips, sealing compound or expanding foam to seal these spaces. Also, make sure to close the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it. Properly sealing all the air leaks can save up to 20% on heating costs.

4. Explore New Smart Home Technology

Smart thermostats, smart lighting and other energy-saving devices improve electricity usage. Not only is it possible to program a smart thermostat based on your schedule, but you can adjust it remotely. Some can even learn your HVAC habits and tweak temperature settings on its own to balance comfort and efficiency.

5. Unplug Unused Electronics

Many devices still use electricity when left connected, even when turned off. To reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, remove plugs like phone chargers, TVs and gaming consoles when not in use. Having power strips you can quickly switch off makes it easy.

6. Plan Heating Schedules on the Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to reduce your heating bills. Adjust the setting to around 68 degrees F when you’re at home, and decrease it 7 to 10 degrees down when you’re away or in bed. Because of the automatic adjustments of programmable thermostats, you can set a comfortable temperature to where you like it before you get home or start your day. You won’t notice a change in comfort, but you’ll certainly notice the savings—up to 10% annually. If your home uses a heat pump or radiant floor heating, check that you use a thermostat model compatible with them to keep efficiency high.

7. Put in More Insulation

If your floors and attic don’t have enough insulation, your home is losing heat. 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 is insulated, using better insulation can further boost your energy savings.

8. Add a Warm Layer Inside

Wearing the right clothing isn’t the most fun option for lowering your thermostat, but every little bit helps! Wear a cozy sweater, a pair of warm socks and grab a blanket. Then, go ahead and adjust the setting 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 drop the temperature.

9. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature

A home’s water heater is responsible for a large chunk of each month’s energy bill, right behind your heating costs. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to reduce energy consumption while still delivering hot water for your household.

10. Rely on Space Heaters Wisely

Space heaters can deliver a fast way to heat, but they’re also big energy guzzlers. Rather than turning them on throughout the house, only turn them on when and where you really need extra heat. For the best energy savings, try to look for energy-efficient space heaters with thermostats.

11. Look for High-Efficiency Appliances

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

12. Maintain Your Heating System

Preventative HVAC maintenance ensures your system operates smoothly, which saves money. Plan an annual checkup with an HVAC technician every fall to keep everything in top shape all winter. During the rest of the year, change the air filter roughly every one to three months. A clean filter restores full air circulation while it also lowers energy consumption to keep you warm.

Keep Your Home Warm Without Draining Your Wallet

Follow these practical tips to enjoy a cozy home this winter while cutting energy costs. To help keep your heating system performing well, choose Xtra Mile. Our Expert technicians offer quick and durable fixes to meet all your comfort needs. For quality care, contact us today!