Have you set energy goals for yourself this holiday season? Having a working energy-saving plan for the winter months can save you an average of 10 percent each year. Our no-cost and low-cost energy tips can help you achieve lower energy bills during the winter — which reduces your carbon footprint and saves your family money (which you can use to take a much-needed winter getaway or to help you cover basic holiday costs).
Anyone can keep their thermostat set to 68 degrees, bundle up in a thick Christmas sweater, or keep interior doors closed. These are advanced tips you might not think of on your own. Follow them, and reap the rewards this holiday season.
1. Upgrade Your Windows
Heat can escape your windows and greatly increase your winter energy costs. You can save up to $126 dollars on your yearly energy costs by going from single pane to double pane windows. Upgrading to ENERGY STAR windows is an even more advanced step that might cost a little more but will help you save thousands in the long run. Plus, many provinces offer rebates and other incentives to make the switch more appealing.
2. Keep Your HVAC Unit Running Efficiently
There are several factors that contribute to higher utility bills and an inefficient HVAC unit can create extra costs all winter long. Hire a professional before the snows really start to fall, and they will make sure your unit is working at peak efficiency — and should it require replacement, they will explain your options clearly to you and offer you comprehensive furnace info every homeowner should know in order to minimize your energy costs.
3. Only Heat the Rooms You Use
Save money on your utility costs by only heating the rooms that you’re using. Close the vents and keep the doors closed to any unused guest rooms or storage areas in your home. Also, allow the sun to heat your home during daylight hours by opening the curtains and allowing them to heat those rooms naturally.
4. Invest in Insulation
Thousands of dollars are lost each year due to poor insulation. If you live in an apartment, new insulation installation will be up to the property owner. However, residential customers can visit their local home improvement store and start with inexpensive weather stripping. Like furnace work, hiring a professional installation expert will pay in the long run when DIY isn’t recommended.
5. Get An Energy Audit
An energy auditor can direct you on ways to save on your energy costs. They can assess your home and inform you of areas that are contributing to higher winter utilities and make suggestions on how to lower your bills.
6. Switching to LED Christmas Lights & Using a Timer
We all want to feel like we’re living in Whoville, but holiday lighting costs will add up. Switch to LED lights and try using a timer so you’re not wasting energy in the wee hours of the night. It’s great to have a brilliantly shining holiday tree and to have exterior lights to wow the neighbours, but why not time them to shut off when nobody’s looking?
Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to saving on your home utility costs this holiday season and all winter long.
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