How to Save on Electricity During the Winter

18 February, 2022 Hi-Lite Electric Inc.

Many of us appreciate cooler winter weather, but your HVAC system is not enjoying this break. The cold weather often requires our heaters to run continuously, so your bills are often higher than in the spring. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money on your electricity bill. Discover why your bill might be higher this winter and how you can reduce it.

What causes my electric bill to be so high during winter?

Home is where you spend the most time. We love staying in our cozy, warm homes during cold weather. Home become more comfortable and attractive with lights, heat, television and other technology to keep us warm and entertained. Schools are also closed during winter break, which casues increased electricity use at home.

Dropping Temperatures Occur

Typically, our heating systems work hardest during the coldest months of the year, around mid-December to late January. As the temperature difference between the outside and inside of your home grows, the harder it is for your HVAC system to keep you comfortable.

Consider Upgrading Your Thermostat

Smart thermostats offer more energy-saving options and allow you to control your HVAC system, using your smartphone from any location. Programmable thermostats allow you to alter your heating schedule to save money, whereas smart thermostats offer even more energy-saving options.

Lowering The Thermostat

The temperature can be set back 7°-10° to save up to 10 percent on your heating and cooling bill. It is recommended that you set the thermostat to 68° when you’re away or asleep during the winter period. Try to encourage the whole family to keep house temperatures as low but as comfortably possible.

Filters Need To Be Checked

Your HVAC system will run more efficiently if you regularly replace or clean your filters. The right filters should also be used to ensure optimal performance.

Air Vents Should Not Be Blocked

Ensure that no furniture is blocking your vents. Clearing the area around your vents will result in better air circulation.

Heating Uninsulated Rooms Should Be Avoided

It is unnecessary to heat places like garages, crawl spaces or other uninsulated areas. They lose that heat much faster when there is no insulation.

Consider Your Holiday Decorations

Lighting and other festive decorations consume a lot of electricity during the holidays. If you’re an enthusiastic lighting artist, you may be concerned to see the effect of all that additional lighting on your electricity bill.

Get a Tune-Up

Ensure the efficiency of your heating system by consulting a professional before winter starts.

Check Your Insulation

Maintaining your comfort throughout the year is made easier with good insulation, especially in the attic. A properly insulated attic is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy waste since it is often a significant source of heat loss. Insulating your attic floor prevents warm air from rising up and out of your house in the winter.

Ensure That Your Windows And Doors Are Sealed

You might be able to stop a cold air from entering your home by weatherstripping your windows and door frames, or replacing their existing seals. If you want to test your seals, put a piece of paper between the seal and the door or window. Then close the door or window. Replace the seal if you can easily remove the paper.

Energy Should Be Conserved In The Laundry Room

Laundry can be energy-consuming. The washer and dryer use a lot of electricity. Try to use these appliances as little as possible to reduce costs. Make sure you wash and dry full loads and use cold water when you can. Dry your laundry by hanging it if there is space. Doing this will also help your clothes last longer.

Water Heaters Need To Be Adjusted

Most water heaters are recommended to be set at 120 degrees. A water heater that is too hot wastes energy, and can even create a health hazard.

Smart Lighting Habits Will Help You Save Energy

LED bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last 25 times longer. When leaving a room, make sure that the lights are turned off.

Whenever You Are Not Using An Electronic Device, Unplug It

On average, households spend $100 per year on standby power. To prevent electronics from draining standby power, use surge protectors.

Refrigerators Should Be Checked

Have you set your refrigerator’s temperature correctly? The wrong temperature could cost you money. You should consult the manufacturer for the recommended temperature setting. You should also make sure that your refrigerator’s door does not let cold air escape and cause the refrigerator to work harder. Use the paper seal test to check.

Rugs Are A Great Solution

As a result, your floors are warm and cozy, and your feet are comfortable.

Let yourself be warmed by the sun. The drapes should be open during the day to maintain your house’s temperature and closed at night to provide insulation.

Garage Doors Should Be Kept Closed

Close your garage door to keep cold air from entering your home through the garage side wall.

Protect Your Water Heater And Pipes By Insulating Them

It is especially important to insulate your water heater tank if it is installed in an unheated part of your home, such as the attic or garage. Another easy DIY job that helps save energy is to insulate the accessible areas of hot water pipes.

Ceiling Fans Should Be Reversed

You can set your fan to a low speed by turning it clockwise. Your fan does not push cool air upward, so it makes you feel warmer by pushing warm air downward.

The Damper On Your Chimney Should Be Closed

The fireplace keeps us warm and toasty during these cold winter months but remember to shut the damper when you’re finished to prevent warm air from escaping – and cold air from coming in.

The Outlets In Your Home Should Be Insulated

Do you have cool air circulating around your electrical outlets? To prevent drafts, you can buy cheap, self-adhesive foam gasket covers at your local hardware store.

For more information about saving on your electricity bill, or to speak directly with an electrician in Vaughan, call Hi-Lite Electric at 416-800-5536 or contact us here.