According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, you can expect to pay a higher electric bill to stay warm this winter. Statistics show that 90% of Americans experienced a sharp increase in the cost to heat their homes last year, with costs for all fuel types projected to continue to rise this winter!
With such dramatic increases in the price of electricity and other fuels, it's difficult to stay warm in the winter without breaking your budget. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to dramatically cut your heating bill and still feel warm and cozy!
Try these strategies:
Save on the cost of your hot water. The cost to operate your hot water heater can contribute to a large percentage of the energy consumption in your home. Heating water and storing it accounts for up to 25% of your monthly electric bill!
- Install a timer so you aren't paying to keep water hot when you’re asleep or away from home.
- Lower your bill by swapping your older electric hot water heater for a more energy-efficient model.
- Consider upgrading your hot water heater to one that uses an alternative, renewable energy source, such as solar power.
Plug the leaks. Air escaping from cracks and leaks in your home dramatically increases your energy costs.
- Repairing broken window panes, installing storm windows, and adding extra caulk around the sash are easy ways to reduce your heating costs. Take the time to reduce the amount of warm air that escapes from your home.
- Many homeowners are unaware that their HVAC unit's ductwork can leak. Ensure that it’s inspected regularly and make the necessary repairs. Our yearly Maintenance Agreement can help keep costs down with inspections and prevention.
- Small fans in your kitchen or bathroom can quickly pull out all of the warm air in your home, so turn them off when not in use.
Consider using smart appliances and online apps to remotely control your sources of lighting, heating, and cooling. This way, you can turn off lights and unused appliances at the touch of a button if you forget to turn them off before leaving your home for the day.
Take advantage of passive sources of energy. The sun is a powerful (and free) form of energy. Be on the lookout for easy ways to harness its power.
- Installing a simple kit to safely vent your dryer's exhaust into your home can block lint while allowing additional warm air to flow into your home as you dry your clothes.
- Install insulated curtains to reduce drafts and block out the cold.
- On sunny winter days, open the curtains to windows that face south to allow the sun's energy to increase the temperature inside your home.
- Be certain to prune any branches or bushes that might block the sun from entering your windows. This boosts the heating power of the sunlight and increases natural lighting, which can also help boost your mood!
Turn down your thermostat, just a little. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, turning down your thermostat just one degree for a whole day will help you save 3% on your heating costs.
- Add additional blankets to your bed and lower the thermostat from 78 to 68 degrees while you sleep. You probably won’t notice the difference in temperature while under the covers, and it will help you save an additional 14% on your electric bill!
Rising energy costs make it difficult to afford to stay warm during the winter. These tips can help you keep cozy while lowering your electricity costs!
Have any questions or want us to inspect your HVAC system? Give us a call. We’ll be there quick as a “Haire.”