You may be looking to save money this holiday season and through the coming winter months. You may also be seeking ways to lessen the impact of our energy use on our planet. These energy-saving tips will help with it all.
Pre-winter checks
It is important to get regular check-ups on your furnace to make sure it’s working properly. You don’t want to be in a situation where it’s 20° outside with no heat inside. It is recommended to have a heating contractor come to check that everything is operating properly. Another thing is to make sure your vents are clean. If they’re full of dust and lint, the heat won’t flow as well.
Having a programmable thermostat
Programmable thermostats are a great way to keep the heat set at a certain temperature. It also can be set to lower temperatures during certain times of the day. People save on average 10% on their heat bills if they turn the heat back 7-10° during an 8 hour period. Common times to keep homes cooler are at night and when people are gone during the day. Vist MGE to learn more about programmable thermostats and how to use them.
Closing and opening the curtains
Opening and closing curtains during the winter are very necessary. If you have windows facing the south side, keep the blinds/curtains open to let the sun in. That will give natural light and heat in the house, and it’s free! When the sun goes down, all blinds/curtains should be shut to eliminate any cold air from the windows. You can also purchase thermal curtains to help keep the cold out even more.
Stop the drafts
In older homes, it’s more likely drafts will be an issue. Drafts can raise heat bills and are usually easy to spot, as they can be found around windows and exterior doors. One way to stop window drafts is to put plastic sheets or wraps over the window to lessen the draft. With a door draft, use a weather slip or towel under the door for best results.
Dress warmer / move your body
An easy thing that people don’t always think about is to bundle up when you are inside and move your body. Layering up in sweatshirts, fuzzy socks, blankets, etc. is a simple way to stay warm while saving money. Getting some exercise also helps raise the heart rate and keeps us warm.
Keep the oven open after use
After making that delicious meal, let that hot air out! Opening the oven door after use lets the heat out and can warm the house a little more.
As we navigate changing seasons, global warming, and increased energy costs, it is important to stay on top of home maintenance and making sure we are doing the best we can. Stay warm!
