Baby, it’s cold outside! It’s getting chilly and the temperature is dropping every day even though we are still a few days away from the start of winter. If you’re trying to stay warm this winter and save a couple bucks, here are 10 simple ways to save energy and pennies in your home this winter.
#1. Seal the Gaps
Check all the windows, doors, and any other place cold air can leak in or warm air can get out. Re-caulk doors and window seals and cover vents to prevent heat from escaping.
#2. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Thermostats like the Nest™ learn when you are in the home and when you’re gone. You can program the settings to stay cooler when you’re away and turn on when you get home, saving you precious dollars each month on heating costs.
#3. Use Energy Star Items for More Than Appliances
Did you know you can buy Energy Star doors and windows as well as appliances? These materials are perfect for places where cold/warm air can easily come through, so buying windows and doors with better insulation will save on your energy costs.
Read More: 6 home improvement projects that add value to your home
#4. Lower the Water Heater Temperature
This is a great way to reduce energy consumption if you’re away on vacation or you can stand the lower temperature all the time. Some water heaters even have a ‘vacation’ setting but if not, plan on reducing the temperature if you’re going to be gone for several days.
#5. Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
Hair dryers, toasters, coffee makers, computers; these all pull energy just by being plugged in even if they are not on. Go through your house and see what can be unplugged when not in use. Note: Use a power strip for items so you don’t have to run through the house unplugging each little device. One strip to turn it all off.
#6. Use Window Blinds and Curtains
Open the curtains and blinds when the sun is out to let the natural heat warm your house and close them at night to add a buffer between the cold outside and the warm indoors.
#7. Heat Only the Rooms You Use
If you have rooms you never use, like storage rooms or guest rooms, close and seal off the vents in those rooms to redirect the air to rooms you use the most. Use space heaters in rooms you use often instead of turning up the heat.
Related Post: Found your forever home? Here’s how to love it!
#8. Use LED Holiday Lights
Every time you buy a string of holiday lights make sure they are LED. Same with light bulbs in your house. Eventually, all the bulbs in your house will be LED, saving you hundreds per year.
#9. Use a Humidifier
Winter air can be very dry so use a humidifier to create a moist air environment in your home, which can make you feel more comfortable if you’ve lowered your thermostat.
#10. Clean Your Furnace
Having a clear filter and unblocked furnace will help it run more efficiently and reduce energy consumption.
Stay warm this winter and remember, if you’re ever looking for a new, more efficient home in West Bloomfield or Farmington Hills, give me a call anytime.
