Winter Energy Saving Tips

Programmable thermostats insulated windows and doors, and furnace maintenance are good options to reduce energy costs in the home during the chilly winter months.

As temperature decreases, the energy bills increase in many family homes. The cost of heating the home takes a big chunk out of the household budget; therefore, it is important to reduce energy expenses in any way we can

Insulate Windows and Doors

Doors and windows are big culprits for allowing heat to leave the home. Each year, it is important to ensure there is a good seal between the door and the door frame. One method is to slowly move a lit candle around the door frame, and if the light flickers, there is a leak.

Weather stripping the door is a good option, and different doors require assorted styles. It is best to go to the local hardware store to get the best product for your door. Weather stripping can be metal, rubber, foam, and plastic. You can also apply the strips with nails, staples, or adhesive. Weather stripping is a straightforward process, and most homeowners can complete the work themselves.

Newer variety of windows are weatherproof, but many of the older windows let in the frosty winter air. Place shrink wrap on windows to keep the warm air in and the chilly air out. Shrink wrap can be purchased at hardware stores and are quite easy to install. Most often, all that is required is the shrink wrap and blow dryer.

Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a worthwhile investment as it can give the homeowner substantial savings. If no one is home during the day, reduce the temperature, and an hour before homeowners return home, have it increase to warm the home to a comfortable level. At night, lower the thermostat as the blankets will keep all warm and have it increase about an hour before the family wakes in the morning.

A programmable thermostat allows the occupants to set specific temperature limits and times of the day. Some allow the owner to set for specific days too.

Stove Annual Maintenance

Stove filters come in all sizes and shapes, so measuring the width and length is best before heading out to the hardware store. Many types of filters are available, so it is up to the homeowner to choose the right one for their specific stove model. If you heat your home with a traditional stove, you should change filters every few months as they clog with dust particles. Alternatively, you can opt for a reusable filter that you can clean every few months.

It is important to have annual check-ups on a stove from a licensed technician to ensure everything is working well and there is no unnecessary heat loss. Too often, annual inspections could have avoided an expensive repair.

A programmable thermostat, annual furnace maintenance, and insulating windows and doors are just a few options to reduce energy costs in the home. It is important to evaluate annually how to save money on winter energy bills.