Tips To Keep You Warm Without Extra Cost

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Colder temperatures, snow, rain, and frost; all parts of what makes up the holiday and winter season. Although winter can mean fun outdoor activities, it can also mean higher energy use, and higher costs. According to the Governor’s Energy Office, as much as half of the energy used in a home goes to heating and cooling. This winter, follow these energy tips to enjoy a warm and affordable season.

Lower the thermostat

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Most energy companies will advise homeowners to set the thermostat to 68 degrees. This will prevent the heating system from overworking. Turn it down 5 degrees when not at home or at night, and an additional $70 can be saved each year. Also remember to keep the thermostat constant. Continuously adjusting the thermostat can cause inefficiencies and higher costs.

Set the water heater

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If the water heater is adjusted to 120 degrees, it won’t have to work as hard as it would at a higher temperature. Each time the temperature is lowered 10 degrees Fahrenheit, 3 – 5 % can be saved on water heating costs. If the temperature control settings only offer low, medium, or high: use whichever setting will keep the water warm enough for home use.

Sunlight

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Just because our days are shorter, doesn’t mean the sun can’t offer help. Take advantage of Mother Nature and open window coverings on south-facing windows to warm your home. Remember to close them at night to retain heat. Close the window coverings in rooms that receive no direct sunlight to insulate from cold window drafts.

Cold water

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Not only does washing clothes in cold water prevent colors from bleeding, but according to Energy Star, using cold water to wash clothes can save about $40 a year with an electric water heater and about $30 with a gas water heater.

Insulation

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While these first tips were all no-cost suggestions, insulation is a smart way to keep big bills away. The easiest and most cost-effective way to insulate the home is to add insulation in the attic; however unfinished basement walls and crawl spaces can also be insulated to help trap heat. When insulation is correctly installed and the home is completely weatherized, the average savings can amount to up to 20% of the total heating and cooling costs.