Some people love crisp, cool weather and bundling up under a favorite blanket, while others prefer the warm temperatures summer brings and the fun outdoor activities that go with it. But there’s 1 thing we can all agree on: High winter bills are never fun.
Clearwater Power is here to help you find ways to manage your home energy use and keep winter bills in check.
Here are 5 tips to help increase your home’s energy efficiency this winter:
Mind the Thermostat
This is 1 of the easiest ways to manage your home energy use. We recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees (or lower) when you’re home. When you’re sleeping or away for an extended period, try setting it between 58 and 62 degrees.
Button Up Your Home
The Department of Energy estimates that air leaks account for 24% to 40% of the energy used for heating and cooling a home. Caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors is a simple, cost-collective way to increase comfort and save energy. If you can feel drafts while standing near a window or door, it likely needs to be sealed.
Use Window Coverings Wisely
Open blinds, drapes or other window coverings during the day to allow natural sunlight to warm your home. Close them at night to keep the cold air out. If you feel cold air around windows, consider hanging curtains or drapes in a thicker material. Heavier window coverings can make a significant difference in blocking cold outdoor air.
Consider Your Approach to Appliance Use
Appliances and electronics account for a significant chunk of our home energy use, so assess how efficiently you’re using them. When you’re running the dishwasher or clothes washer, only wash full loads. Look for electronic devices that consume energy even when they’re not in use, such as phone chargers or game consoles, and unplug them to save energy. Every little bit helps.
Think Outside the Box
If you’re still feeling chilly at home, think of other ways to warm up beyond dialing up the thermostat. Add layers of clothing, wear thick socks, and bundle up under blankets. You can even add layers to your home. If you have hard-surface flooring, consider buying an area rug to block cold air that leaks in through the floor.
If you’re taking steps to save energy but continue to see major increases in your bills, call us at (208) 743-1501. We can help identify areas and other factors impacting your home energy use and recommend the next steps for savings.
Winter months often bring some of the highest energy bills of the year. By being proactive about saving energy, you can increase the comfort of your home and reduce monthly bills.
Before you turn up the thermostat, put on an extra layer of clothing and get cozy under your favorite blanket.