Winter is here, and with it comes higher energy bills. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save energy this winter and keep your home warm and cozy. Here are seven tips you can use to help reduce energy costs this winter:
1. Check for Drafts to Save Energy This Winter
Take the time to go around your home and check for drafts. Make sure doors and windows are adequately sealed, curtains and drapes close tightly, and weather stripping along doorways is secure. This will help keep warm air inside your home where it belongs.
2. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat to help save energy and money. This type of thermostat allows you to set a specific temperature for different times of day, so when you’re out of the house or asleep at night, you can automatically lower the temperature without sacrificing comfort.
3. Use Space Heaters as Needed to Save Energy This Winter
Space heaters are great for heating a small area, like the living room or bedroom. Use it to heat one room and keep larger spaces at a lower temperature.
4. Take Advantage of the Sun’s Heat
Letting in natural sunlight during the day can help provide some extra warmth, so open up the curtains and shades to let in some sunlight. In the evening or on cloudy days, heavy drapes help keep the cold at bay.
5. Utilize Ceiling Fans
Use ceiling fans to help spread out warm air throughout the room. Set them on a low speed and run them clockwise (in winter) to push warm air down from the ceiling and make it feel warmer in the room.
6. Save Energy This Winter by Cleaning Your Vents
Vents and radiators should be vacuumed and dusted regularly to ensure they work as efficiently as possible. Doing this also helps reduce dust in your home, which is especially important during winter when windows tend to stay closed for longer periods.
7. Monitor Your Energy Usage
Pay attention to how much energy you use and find ways to reduce it. Unplugging electronic devices that aren’t in use, washing clothes in cold water, and replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lights can all help reduce your energy usage. Take time to find the source for significant energy costs and reduce where you can.
These seven tips will help keep your home warm and cozy this winter while keeping your energy bills low. Taking a few extra steps to conserve energy is an easy way to do your part for the environment. So don’t forget to turn off lights when you’re done with them, and make sure you keep up with regular heating system maintenance.
Encompass Home Inspection Service provides inspections for homebuyers and sellers in Southern New Jersey and Southeastern Pennsylvania. Contact us to request our services.