As the weather gets colder, we
tend to spend more time inside. As a result of spending more time indoors, our
electricity bills unfortunately go up. Our lights, heating systems, tv and
computers are costing us more money than any other time of the year, but what
if we told you that you can actually lower your bills without lessening your
usage?
#1 - Stop heating the outside
Did you know, according to the
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), "Up to a
third of a typical home's heat loss occurs through windows and doors. Air can also
leak into or out of the house through the cracks and gaps
inside your home, such as electrical outlets, baseboards, and attic hatches."
By caulking and sealing different areas of your house, you can lower the
thermostat, keep the warm air in and save a significant amount of money. Pro
tip: Closing your curtains during the day and night can also help keep
the heat in your home.
#2 - Use your thermostat in a
"smart" way
They say the best time to turn
down the heat is at night and when you're away from home. One way to easily
manage the temperature during these times is to upgrade to a smart thermometer.
While it is more expensive than a traditional thermometer, it ends up paying
for itself because you can set automatic timers and change the temperature from
any location, saving you money on your electric bill over time.
#3 - Regularly replace your
furnace filter
These things can easily get looked
over, but by ensuring your systems are not working harder than they need to be,
you're not only lowering your monthly bill but also preventing major repairs in
the future.
#4 - Use your devices
efficiently
Did you know that "low power mode"
and "battery saver" settings on your tech devices can affect your electric
bill? Appliances and heating systems may also have this feature, which can
significantly cut your energy use without sacrificing performance. If you want
to know what devices have these features, check out this
article that breaks it down.
#5 - Spend money to save money
If you are on the market for new
appliances, check to see
which models have the best energy-saving features. Whether it's winter or
summer, this kind of investment will help you save money all year round. Even
swapping your lightbulbs is a money saver. According to the DOE, "Just one LED
bulb may save you $50
or more over the course of its lifetime—the average household
has at least 40 light
sockets, so your savings will add up quickly."
Telhio Credit
Union offers home
improvement loans to help with your energy-saving updates. Talk to one of
our loan experts today to learn more.
