It’s that time of year again. The cold season is here, but you don’t have to let that bum you out. There are many things you can do to have a perfectly warm home that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Here are some ways to save on heating costs during the winter.
“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, "Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.” - Lewis Carroll
First Up: Saving on Water
Holiday parties mean using more running water than usual. Between extra showers, more dishes, and just basic water needs, you’re certain to run a higher than average bill. Friends and family certainly mean well, but they can drive up your water bill. So this winter, try out the following tips to save a few bucks on that water bill.
- Winterizing your outdoor faucets
- Checking your piping
- Making sure the heat stays above freezing
- Don’t leave the water running when doing dishes
- Limit shower times
- Turn off water when brushing your teeth
- Defrost frozen foods in your fridge
- Install green tech
Drafts and Leaks
Another huge factor into reducing your monthly heating costs is making sure you don’t have any holes in your interior. This means that insulation is important, and not having any gaps is equally important. So be for to check for leaks and drafts this winter, and then plug them up if you do find some. Weatherstripping, caulk, and door sweeps can all make a difference in how to save heat energy.
New Appliances
A little known fact about appliances is that certain ones can save you money on heating and energy costs. Obviously the big one is the programmable thermostat. Most homeowners report saving up to $180 a year with the help of a programmable model. You might also be asking how to lower the electric bill in winter in apartments like yours. And the answer is simple: ditch the older appliances. Newer models can cut the energy cost by as much as half. Otherwise if you’re still cold, invest in a personal heater.
Insulation is Key
The biggest problem with homes is that not all of them have been insulated, or not insulated correctly. One of the biggest ways to save on heating costs is to make sure that everything that can be insulated in your home is so. This means your home has either spray foal, loose fill, or straight up batts in every nook and crevice.
- Pipes
- Attic
- Basement
- Outlets
- Windows
- Doors
- Sills
The Little Things You Don’t Think of
There are also little ways to save heat energy in your home. Most homeowners aren’t aware that the very coloring patterns you use to paint with will change how warm or cold you feel. Use these tips to feel warmer, even if it’s a little bit of a placebo. You won’t notice.
- Dress warmly
- Use multiple blankets
- Stand or sit in the sunlight
- Change air filters
- Reverse ceiling fans
- Get an energy audit
- Install even more insulation
- Tune up your heating system
”Cheat” Your Energy Bill with LED
Another way to save on electrical costs is to simply use LEDs. Your electric bill with be much lower once you’ve switched over from light bulbs. Furthermore, LED lights are cooler looking and can be placed nearly anywhere. Imagine track lighting down your hallway.
Keep the Fireplace Ready
There are also a few tips on how to minimize the amount of heat lost from your fireplace and chimney. THis mostly focuses on keeping the unit insulated. Here are some of the best ways to save heat energy in your home.
- Caulk around the hearth
- Get C-shaped metal tube grates
- Use tempered glass
- If you never use the fireplace, retire it and cap the chimney
- Keep your dampers closed until you start a fire
Any advice on keeping your heating and electric bills down? Or tips on how to save money this holiday season? Let us know in the comments below!
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