Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

Simple Energy-Saving Tips for the Chilly Season

Energy RIS updated November 17, 2024

 
 

Energy-Saving Tips to Keep Your Home Cozy and Your Heating Bills Low This Winter

As temperatures drop, many homeowners notice a rise in their heating bills. While some increase in energy usage is inevitable during the colder months, you can take several simple steps to reduce energy consumption and keep your home warm and comfortable. Here are some expert energy-saving tips to help you stay cozy without breaking the bank.

1. Reverse Ceiling Fans for Better Heat Distribution

Ceiling fans are typically used in the summer to cool rooms, but did you know they can help distribute heat in the winter too? Simply reverse the direction of your ceiling fan so it spins clockwise. This will push warm air that gathers at the ceiling down toward the floor, helping to evenly heat the room and improve comfort without turning up the thermostat.

2. Maximize Natural Sunlight

Take advantage of the sun's warmth during the day by opening curtains, shades, and blinds to let sunlight naturally heat your home. As the sun sets and temperatures drop, close window treatments to trap the warmth inside. For added energy efficiency, consider installing insulated curtains, which can help block cold air from seeping in through windows.

3. Seal Air Leaks to Prevent Heat Loss

Air leaks around windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss. To check for drafts, place a piece of paper under the door or near windows—if it moves easily, air is leaking through. Reseal leaks with weatherstripping or caulking, or consider replacing old, inefficient windows and doors to keep the cold air out and warm air in.

4. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature

While hot showers are a winter essential, your water heater may be set too high, leading to unnecessary energy consumption. Lowering your water heater temperature to 120°F (49°C) is typically sufficient for most household needs and can help reduce energy usage while still providing hot water when you need it.

5. Use a Smart Thermostat for Maximum Efficiency

A smart thermostat can optimize your home's heating schedule by learning your routines and adjusting the temperature accordingly. Set it to lower the heat when you're away or asleep, and program it to warm up your home before you return. Many models even allow you to control the temperature remotely from your smartphone, ensuring your home is always comfortable without wasting energy.

6. Maintain Your Heating System

To keep your heating system running efficiently, schedule regular maintenance and replace furnace filters every month. Clean filters ensure proper airflow, preventing the system from working harder than necessary. An annual inspection by a professional can help identify any issues before they become costly repairs and ensure your system is operating at peak performance.

By following these simple tips, you can reduce your energy consumption, lower your heating bills, and enjoy a warm, comfortable home throughout the winter months.


By incorporating these strategies, you'll not only stay warm but also maximize energy efficiency, ultimately helping both the environment and your wallet.


Recent Blog Posts

Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.

What to Look for During a Winter Home Inspection

If you plan to offer a home this winter, you may have an advantage during the home inspection. The home inspector will be able to assess winter-related house issues wh… Read more

security

Home Security Tips as Daylight Hours Decrease

As the days become shorter and the sun sets in the late afternoon, homes can lose the sense of security that the daylight hours provide. However, adding the necessary … Read more

renovations

Home Renovation Projects to Tackle This Winter 🛠️❄️

Winter might not be the first season that comes to mind for home renovations, but there are actually several projects that are perfect to start during the colder month… Read more

flooring

Should You Replace Your Carpet with Tile Flooring? 🏠✨

Is your carpet looking a little worse for wear after years of foot traffic, pet stains, and spills? If you’re thinking about replacing it, consider whether tile might … Read more

inlaw suite

How to Design a Safe In-Law Apartment for Your Aging Parent 🏡👵👴

As our population ages, many adult children are welcoming their elderly parents into their homes. Not only does this multigenerational living arrangement offer more ti… Read more

electricity

Common Misconceptions About Electricity Usage (And How to Save Money!) ⚡💡

Did you know that many homeowners are unknowingly wasting electricity? Whether it’s due to misconceptions or simply not understanding how energy consumption works, a f… Read more

New Home

Preparing Your New Home for the Holidays

If this is your first holiday season in a new home, you may start decorating with a blank slate. Whether you’ve brought your decorations from years past or you’re star… Read more

credit

Why It Can Be a Good Idea to Keep a Credit Card That You Seldom Use

If you want to simplify your finances and you have a credit card that you rarely use, you might think it would make sense to close the account. Before you make that m… Read more

Home buying tips

Holiday Season Homebuying Tips

If you are in a position where you need to buy a new home over the holiday season, it can be a tremendously busy time to navigate. Homebuying can be stressful no matte… Read more

Work With Us