Posted: January 9, 2017
A lot of families do not look forward to winter. The change in weather brings change in living conditions. Roads can become dangerous and the frigid temperatures can keep you from wandering outside in some parts of the country. With less time outside and more time inside, changes in your energy usage can fluctuate as often as the weather. When winter hits, energy and heating costs tend to go through the roof. Making small changes can add up to big savings. Here are some energy saving tips you can use this winter to keep your bills low while keeping your family warm.
Open Your Curtains
Use the sunlight to your advantage for the natural heat source that it is. During the day, open the curtains and blinds in your home to use the sun to help heat your home. It will not only make your home warmer but also gives your home natural lighting. There is no need to turn on the lights when you can use the sun to light up your home.
Leaks
Drafty windows can be your worst enemy when it comes to your wallet. Small leaks can let a lot of cold air in your home and a lot of warm air out. Use window film to cover up windows to stop drafts and leaks. Window film can be installed and removed easily. The film is clear so it doesn’t block your view and still allows for natural light to get in.
Shut Vents and Doors
If there is a room or a level of your home you are not using, close off the heat to it. You can do this by closing the heating vents in the rooms or shutting the doors to stop the flow of wasted heat.
Adjust Thermostat
Turn your thermostat down when you are not home and at night when you are sleeping. Don’t waste money heating your home, when you are not around or awake to enjoy it. Energy.gov states that turning your thermostat back 10° to 15° for eight hours can save you around 10% a year on your heating bill.
Do Your Research
Are you getting the best deal when it comes to your home? Shop around and do your research to see if you are getting the best deal when it comes to energy and heating providers. A simple switch of companies can save you money each month.
Budget Your Bill
A way to make winter energy bills not as harsh is getting on a budget payment plan. Companies offer plans where your heating costs are spread out through the year on your bill. Instead of getting hit with huge bills in the winter, your bill will remain the same and manageable each month. This will allow you to save and have a plan placed ahead of time. You won’t be left scratching your head wondering how hard you will get hit each month for a bill, it will already be a set stable amount.
Bundle Up
Wear warm clothes, stack on the layers and cover up with warm blankets. The more you wear, the warmer you will be and you won’t be aching to turn up the heat as much. This doesn’t mean you have to flaunt a winter coat in the house but simply wearing big cozy sweaters or adding a robe to your daily house wardrobe will do the trick. Don’t forget your feet! Be sure to add fuzzy socks and slippers along to your list.
Limit Hot Water
Lower your bill by using less hot water in your home and by turning down the temperature on your water heater. Cut costs by turning your water heater off at night. Electric water heaters can use timers that will turn the heater off at a time you set. Some other money saving tips are to reduce your time spent in the shower and by eliminating hot water use for your washing machine. Reduce shower time to no longer than 5 minutes and switch to selecting the cold wash setting on your washer.
Space Heater
Turn down the overall temperature in your house and only use a space heater in the room you are in. This gives you direct heat without wasting energy heating your whole home. Investing in a good space heater might seem pricey but may save you money in the long haul.
Every child deserves a warm home. If you are struggling to pay your energy or heating bills, we can help. MyChild can connect you with the assistance you need. Do not hesitate to call us at (800) 692-4453 to speak with a care team member.
