Energy costs can easily skyrocket once the temperature drops, so it’s important to take steps to keep them as low as possible. Fortunately, there are several simple things you can do to keep your energy costs down in the colder months and save some money in the process. Here are seven tips to keep your energy costs low as the cold weather approaches.
Get a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a great way to keep your energy costs low. Smart thermostats can learn your habits and adjust the temperature in your home automatically. Some models even come with built-in programs that provide tips for saving money on your monthly heating bill. For example, a Nest thermostat saves you an average of 12% per year on your heating bill just by learning how you like to set the temperature in your home. These are worth investing in because they have been proven time and time again to be effective.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fan Direction
Ceiling fans are an excellent way to keep the air in your home flowing. But did you know that it's possible to reverse the direction of your ceiling fan? By switching the blade direction of your ceiling fan to clockwise in the winter, you can pull the heat that is gathered near the ceiling down into your living area.
Take Advantage of the Sun
If you're not already taking advantage of the sun's warmth, now is the time. Sun exposure not only helps your body generate vitamin D and boost your immune system, but it also helps keep you warm in the winter months. Let the sun warm your home naturally by opening your curtains and blinds during the daytime.
Install Insulation Over Your Hot Water Pipes
The benefits of insulating your hot water pipes include reducing heat loss and raising water temperatures by 2°F–4°F, allowing you to reduce your water temperature setting. Moreover, the hot water won't take as long to heat when you turn on the faucet or showerhead, which helps save water.
Perform Regular Maintenance on Your Heating System
The heating system is one of the most expensive appliances in your home. It is also critical for keeping you and your family warm during the winter months. One way to keep your energy costs low is to perform regular maintenance on your heating system. Here are five things that you can do throughout the year (or before the cold weather) to ensure that your heating system works properly:
Change air filters regularly
Look for leaks and fix them
Replace furnace filters
Service or replace dirty blower motors
Check the thermostat settings
Crawl Space Foundation Vents Should Be Sealed
Crawl spaces are often overlooked when it comes to energy efficiency. A crawl space can be a large source of energy loss due to the fact that foundation vents are usually left open, allowing cold air in and warm air out. It is important for homeowners with crawl spaces under their homes to make sure these vents are sealed off so that heat does not escape.
Replace Your HVAC System's Air Filter
One of the easiest ways to keep your energy costs low is by replacing the air filter on your HVAC system. You may not think that this can make a big difference, but it actually does. Air filters act as a barrier between dirty air and the HVAC unit, which helps keep it clean and working at its best. The dirtier the air, the more work an HVAC system has to do in order to provide enough cool or warm air for your home. This is especially important if you have pets or people with allergies in the house because they can release more dust particles into the air than other people would cause.
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