10 Energy-Saving Tips for Winter

While ceiling fans help to cool a room during the warmer months, you may not know that the blades’ rotation can also help you save on your winter heating bill. Hot air rises, so reverse your fan’s blades to a clockwise rotation to help push that warmth back down to you. When spring returns and temperatures warm back up, you can set your fan to a counterclockwise rotation once again to keep your room cool.

Everyone loves a good crackling fire, but your old wood-burning fireplace could be costing you more than you think. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explains that wood-burning fireplaces are generally inefficient when it comes to heating your home. What’s more, wood-burning fireplaces produce smoke. Consider upgrading your fireplace to an EPA-certified model or more efficient insert. You can save on fuel costs, lower your energy usage, and could improve your family’s overall health.

On sunny days, you can let the sun help keep your home warm without increasing your energy usage. Naturally heat your home by drawing the curtains of south-facing windows during the day. You’ll use less electricity to warm your home, keeping your energy bills down without sacrificing your family’s comfort.

Replacing or improving the energy efficiency of your home’s windows could make a big difference in helping you save energy in the winter. The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates upgrading to Energy Star-qualified windows could lower your annual energy bills by 7%-15%. While upgrading your windows can be a costly investment, you could qualify for federal tax credits to offset a portion of the cost. For a budget-friendly alternative, you can cover windows and sliding doors with clear plastic film. While the energy savings may not be as substantial, this simple trick can still make a difference.

If you primarily stay in one room of your home during the day, you can save on energy costs with a space heater. While central heat is the more efficient option to heat an entire home, you’ll use less electricity by heating a single room with a space heater and turning down the thermostat for the rest of your home. If you choose this option, be sure to do your research and follow all safety recommendations when using the space heater.

Your thermostat setting has a huge impact on your energy usage each month. Data from the DOE shows you can save up to 10% on energy bills each year by setting your thermostat 7-10 degrees lower. Save energy this winter by keeping your thermostat set to between 68 and 70 degrees. If the recommended temperature feels too cold, consider wrapping up in a blanket or putting on a sweater while at home.

Your bathroom fans and oven hoods are often-overlooked sources of heat loss in the winter. Use your exhaust fans sparingly, and turn them off when not in use to ensure your home’s warmth isn’t being pulled away.

If you haven’t switched out your home’s older lightbulbs for LEDs, winter is the perfect time to do so. LED bulbs use 90% less energy than traditional incandescent ones, and last up to 25 times longer. Making the switch to LEDs can lead to huge savings on your electricity bills during the winter months, especially if you opt for LED holiday lights as well.

If it’s in your budget, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to make sure the temperature in your home is always at an energy-efficient setting. Smart thermostats save about 8% on heating and cooling costs, or about $50 each year, by automatically regulating your home’s temperature. Investing in a smart thermostat can help you save energy this winter and can also help you lower electric bills in the warmer months.

Take the time to look for gaps around your windows and exterior doors. If you notice any, you can use weatherstripping to seal the gaps. Weatherstripping and similar types of home winterization can help to keep the warm central air inside and prevent cold outside air from sneaking in. Not only will this help you stay comfortable, your HVAC won’t have to work as hard to keep your home warm.