Electric bills often increase during the winter months due to greater use of home heating systems. You can take steps to manage your energy consumption to reduce energy usage to help you lower your bill.
Dress for winter indoors
If you’re wearing sleeveless tops, shorts or going barefoot inside during winter, your thermostat is probably set too high. Lower it to 68 degrees and dress in layers, including long sleeves, sweats, sweaters and socks. For every degree you lower the thermostat, you can save 1% to 3% on heating costs, depending on your system and home.
Adjust your thermostat
Turn the thermostat down at night or when you’re away, following recommendations for your specific heating system.
Stop drafts and leaks. Seal gaps with caulk, weatherstripping and other materials anywhere outside air can enter. This alone can save up to 15% on heating costs.
Maintain your furnace or heaters
Replace or clean furnace filters regularly, as dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Vacuum heating registers and ducts as far as you can reach. For baseboard or electric wall heaters, brush dust from fins and fans. Clean electronic air cleaners about every three weeks.
Add insulation
Insulation is one of the easiest ways to improve efficiency. Insulating to recommended or higher levels helps keep your home comfortable year-round and lowers utility bills.
Adjust your water heater
Set the temperature to 120 degrees to save energy. If recommended by the manufacturer, insulate the tank. Placing it on rigid foam board instead of a bare concrete floor can reduce heat loss.
Reverse ceiling fans
In winter, switch fans to push warm air down. This is especially helpful in rooms with high ceilings.
Open and clear heating vents
Make sure vents are open and not blocked by furniture so warm air can circulate effectively.
Check ductwork
Look for sections that have come apart or developed leaks. Seal them with mastic, butyl tape, foil tape or other heat-rated materials, not standard duct tape.
Use SmartHub
Not sure how much energy you are using? Don’t let it be a surprise when you receive your bill. Register your account on SmartHub to monitor your daily use. You can use the information to make adjustments to your consumption to help lower your bill.
More tips to save money and energy:
Efficiency tips
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