Keeping energy costs low should be a year-round goal. That’s sometimes easier said than done, but in winter, there are definitely a few key things that can make an actual dent in your home energy bills. If you’re looking for ways to cut costs this season, consider the following items on this checklist.
Winter Home Energy Savings Tips
It’s important to have a warm and comfortable home throughout the holiday season, right up until spring. That doesn’t mean that you have to spend a fortune on your home heating costs though. Paying attention to certain areas can help you minimize your expenses. These ideas can give you some inspiration for relatively simple ways to have a really energy-efficient home—even on the coldest days of the year.
- Open the window blinds
The first tip is the easiest to get done, so you can even get the whole family involved. On dark days, keep your window blinds closed to keep the heat inside. Then on sunny days, make an effort to open up your window blinds and pull back any curtains. This will let in the natural light in and add some nice warmth to your home. These sunny spots can then become a great place for the pets to lounge. Or you can use these areas for yourself and curl up with a good book or cup of coffee.
- Inspect the ductwork
Your home’s ductwork is how your treated air travels from room to room. A system that’s designed properly will keep your home comfortable every season without wasting energy needlessly. To make sure that your ducts are staying energy-efficient, it’s a good idea to inspect them. Any leaks or cracks will just cost you in dollars and comfort. When sealed and insulated correctly, you’ll be able to keep your energy bills low.
- Replace your air filter
Remembering to swap out your dirty air filters with a new one can be a fantastic way to help out your HVAC system’s efficiency rating. Leaving an old filter in for too long can start to wear on your unit’s overall performance. It’s harder for air to travel through filters that are clogged with dust and other contaminants, so make a note to change them out every one to three months. Frequent air filter changes will also help keep your indoor air fresh and clean.
- Check the thermostat
A chilly home isn’t on anyone’s wish list this time of year. But it might be worth taking a closer look at your thermostat if you want a home that’s energy-efficient. Even turning your furnace down by a few degrees can save real money this season. If you can handle dressing a little more warmly during the winter months, you can probably end up rolling your energy bill costs back just with this simple fix.
- Use the “hold” feature
Of course, during extra-cold snaps, you’ll want to set your furnace and leave it alone. Telling your unit to rev up when it’s really frigid outside just puts extra strain on the unit, and it might not even be able to make up the difference in temps. You’ll get the best efficiency and comfort by leaving your furnace at “hold” for extreme weather. While keeping the indoor temp slightly lower can make a difference for energy costs, it that doesn’t mean it’s the best option for every day in winter. Just follow this advice, though, and you’ll be all set for a great, energy-smart season!
