6 Simple Ways to Save Money for Winter Energy Efficiency

So, you’re looking cut down costs for winter energy efficiency. While we may not like the idea of wasting energy or cash, many do not know where to start. How can you stay warm this winter season while keeping the bill down? We have compiled a few ways to get started. So, turn down that thermostat, slip on that fleece-lined robe, and read on to learn some easy ways to save energy this winter.

Insulate 

It’s easy to lose heat from areas such as windows. Check areas in your home where cracks might be letting cold air in. Common areas besides windows are around outlets and baseboards. Use caulking and window film to seal up the windows. Caulk around the baseboards and outlets where there are any tiny cracks and gaps. Be sure to use a draft stopper under interior doors.  

Use thermal curtains  

Switch out summer or spring weight curtains for heavy insulating ones that will do wonders (when closed) to insulate and keep the cold out of your home.  

Use heavy blankets and wear warm clothes 

Flannel robes and warm lambswool-lined slippers will help you feel comfortable with slightly lowered heat. Investing in warm blankets and comforters can also help you keep warm as you lower the heat before bedtime.  

Lower the temperature on your thermostat 

A more apparent method of saving on your heating bill, is to lower your thermostat. Think of it in easy mathematical terms: turning the thermostat down 10 degrees helps you save about 10% on heat. The ideal time to lower the heat is before bedtime and before you leave the house when you plan to be out for more than an hour or so. You want the temperature no lower than 63 degrees to prevent any issues with pipes freezing and to prevent you from getting too cold, which can tax your immune system.  

It’s a good idea to program your thermostat to switch to these temperatures, increasing and decreasing at set times, so that you don’t have to do it manually, thereby risking forgetting and inadvertently hiking up the heating bill.   

Which leads us to the next one on this list… 

Use a smart thermostat 

Smart thermostats allow you to program your temperature preferences and they can also be equipped with sensors so that they sense when you’re out or in a different room. They also can be set to adjust to local weather, and you can monitor and make changes using your smartphone.  

Use area rugs 

When it comes to putting rugs in your home in the winter, the larger and the warmer, the better. Material counts too, choose thick rugs with air pockets between the fibers to provide the best insulation and ideally, they should have some wool in the textile blend. It’s best to use an insulated rug pad for extra warmth and most importantly, always use a non-skid backing to prevent slipping. You want to be warm and safe, this winter!