When the temperature drops, the temptation to crank up the heat grows — along with your energy costs. But with a few smart habits and simple home tweaks, you can stay cozy and cut costs. Here are some simple, effective ways to boost your home’s energy efficiency during the colder months.
Take advantage of free solar heat. Open curtains and blinds on sunny days to let warmth in and naturally raise the temperature inside. Once the sun sets, close them to keep that warmth from escaping and add an extra layer of insulation against the chill.
Shorter days often mean more lights are on, but that doesn’t have to mean higher bills. Swap out older bulbs for energy efficient LEDs and consider using smart plugs or timers. That way, you can control when lights turn on and off, even for holiday decorations.
Give your holiday décor an energy efficient glow. LED string lights use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. They also stay cooler to the touch, making them safer for trees and outdoor displays — so you can celebrate in style without the high energy costs.
Keep your thermostat at the lowest comfortable temperature in winter to reduce heating costs. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to automatically adjust when you’re asleep, away for the day, or on vacation so energy isn’t wasted heating an empty home.
Many electric utilities offer demand response programs that reward you for reducing energy use during peak times. By enrolling, you can earn incentives or bill credits just for letting your smart thermostat or other connected devices automatically adjust during high-demand periods. It’s an easy way to save money and support grid reliability in your community. You can check for demand response programs available in your area here.
A well maintained heating system runs more efficiently and uses less energy. Schedule routine service for your furnace or heat pump before the cold really sets in to make sure everything is working at its best.
Dirty filters make your heating system work harder than it needs to. Replacing furnace or heat pump filters once a month or as recommended helps keep air flowing smoothly and your energy use in check.
Even small gaps around windows and doors can let warm air escape and cold air sneak in. Use caulk for cracks around fixed frames and weatherstripping for movable parts like doors and window sashes. These low cost fixes can make a big difference and usually pay for themselves in savings.
Fans aren’t just for summer. Switch your ceiling fan to spin clockwise in winter. This pushes the warm air trapped near the ceiling back down into the room, keeping spaces cozier without turning up the heat.
Did you know that most utility companies offer online marketplaces where you can buy energy-efficient products at discounted prices? These marketplaces often feature top-rated LED bulbs, weatherproofing supplies, smart thermostats, and other smart home devices — typically at lower costs than retail. You’ll usually find a link to the marketplace right on your utility company’s homepage, or you can simply search for your utility’s name followed by “marketplace” using your favorite search engine.