As the months get colder, your energy bills tend to rise. Heating can be more expensive than air conditioning, and you're usually home more in the winter. Shorter days and longer nights paired with the holiday season are just a few reasons for a higher electric bill. You can save money on your electric bill this winter in multiple ways.
1. Weatherstrip Your Doors and Windows
Doors and windows may allow heat to leak out of your house, but new weatherstripping can help. Sealing your windows and doors can cut down on drafts during the winter months. Along with weatherstripping, door sweeps and draft stoppers will protect your residence during the cold months.
2. Close the Damper When Not Using the Fireplace
A fire in your fireplace can be cozy on a winter night. Remember to close the damper, or heat could escape when the fireplace isn't in use. A more efficient fireplace could help keep your home comfortable and lower your electric bill. Switching to a gas fireplace and a glass screen allows you to feel comfortable without losing heat through the chimney.
3. Unplug or Power Down Electronics
Your family probably uses electronics and appliances all the time that require charging. Unplug small appliances and electronics when not using them to prevent overcharging the devices. Electronics you can unplug include televisions, microwaves, and video game consoles. An easy way to lower your electric bill is to power down electronics when not in use. An example is allowing a computer to run instead of powering it down or putting it in sleep mode.
4. Turn Off or Replace the Lights
Make sure to turn off the lights when no one is occupying the room or leaving the house. Utilize the plentiful sunlight during the day in Tampa, FL. Our electricians can retrofit your lighting to help reduce your electric bill. Switching out incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient ones can use much less energy. ENERGY STAR light bulbs last roughly six times longer than traditional ones and use about 75% less energy.
5. Bundle Up
Turn down the thermostat for winter weather for an easy way to lower energy usage. Turning your thermostat down a few degrees for about eight hours can save up to 10% on your electric bill. You can wear a sweater or long sleeves instead of turning up the heat.
6. Get Outside More
One of the reasons that you use more energy in the winter is that you're usually home more. You're less likely to spend your time watching television when going out for a winter sport or activity. The less time your family is home, the fewer appliances will be using power.
As the holidays approach, households usually use more electricity for laundry, heating, and lighting. Keeping your windows and doors closed and replacing your air filter are easy ways to lower your electric bill. If you need circuit breaker replacements or upgrades to prepare for the winter, call us at Mr. Electric today.
