Unless you live in Florida, your energy bill likely doubles in the winter months. This increase in energy cost can certainly have a negative effect on your budget. Fortunately, there are a few tips and tricks that will help you to cut into that exorbitantly high energy bill. Below, you will find our top five winter savings tips to help you and your family to conserve energy and save money this winter.
Use The Power of Mother Nature
Many people leave their blinds and curtains closed when they leave the home during the day. Unless you have an important reason for doing this, it is best to open them up and let as much sunlight in as possible. As the sunlight seeps in, it will naturally heat your home through the greenhouse effect. This practice will allow you to lower your thermostat during the day as well as during the night. Overtime, you will notice a gradual decrease in your winter energy costs by consistently deploying this method.
Close Unnecessary Vents
Most of us spend time in our bedrooms, living room, kitchen and bathroom. If this sounds like your typical routine, then it is advised that you close the vents in the rooms that you do not use as often. Once you have closed those vents, shut the door to that room and only open it if there is a need. This method will cause your furnace to put out less energy while it works to heat a smaller area. Not only will this tip save you money in the short term, it will help to prolong the life of your furnace and filter.
Change and Upgrade Your Furnace Filter
Changing the filter on your furnace can go a long way in your efforts to save money on winter energy costs. A high quality furnace filter will allow your furnace to use less energy while pushing air throughout your ventilation system. The best furnace filters will have a minimum efficiency rating value (MERV) of eight or more. Not only will they help you to save money, they will increase the overall quality of air in your home. In addition, a better filter will help you to avoid potential airborne viruses and bacteria that cause winter colds.
Use LED Lights
According to the United States Department of Energy, LED lights use 75% less energy than traditional light bulbs. If you do not have LED light bulbs, then do not be afraid to use the same LED christmas lights that you use on your tree, to light portions of your home like hallways, rarely used rooms, etc.
Invest in Thick Pajamas and Bedding
Most people dread the thought of lowering their thermostats during those cold winter nights. However, if you invest in thick pajamas, socks and bedding materials like wool, fleece or goose down feathers, you can comfortably lower your thermostat by a few degrees each night and save money month over month during the winter. This tactic will work especially well if you close vents in unused rooms as well.
