Cozy up and Cut Costs This Winter With These 9 Energy-Saving Tips

Winter is coming into full swing. While many may welcome the cold, people generally want to avoid the impending heating costs and other expenses that may come with it. 

Thankfully, several strategies can make your home cozy while reducing your energy bills and promoting sustainability. 

1. Optimize Your Thermostat

Adjusting the thermostat is one way to warm your home, but it can have consequences reflected on your energy bill. If you want to save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs, consider turning back the thermostat 7°-10°F from its normal setting for about eight hours. 

Although it may be a little chillier during these times, lower interior temperatures typically result in slower heat loss. Essentially, you’re saving a lot more energy compared to setting a higher temperature. 

There are ways to mitigate the cold. If you’re adjusting during the daytime, consider engaging in physical activities, such as doing chores or hopping on the treadmill, to work up a sweat. Those who decide to shift the thermostat at night can typically get a good night’s rest with enough blankets.

If you want to go the extra mile, consider opting for smart thermostats instead. These are programmable, allowing you to remotely set the temperature to change at different times of the day.

2. Invest in Insulation

Even when you shut the doors and windows of your home, there can be tiny gaps that allow indoor heat to escape. Freezing outdoor air can also enter through those pathways, negating most of your heating efforts. Thankfully, a U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program evaluation found that weatherization improvements can help you save $372 or more each year on average in energy bills.

Weather stripping is a common solution, as it’s a relatively malleable material that can fit both doors and windows while blocking out air. It can come in the form of a spray-on, paste or just a physical door stopper. Make sure you tend to the attic, garage, entryways and more. 

You can also opt for adding insulating fabrics. Here are a couple of examples:

• Curtains: Curtains act as a second layer of insulation, keeping outdoor cold air from entering your window. Plus, it boosts privacy. 

• Rugs: Give your floor an upgrade with carpeting. It can help minimize heat loss, which is a must if you have tile or hardwood floors. 

• Foam boards: Foam boards can also slow down heat transfer in the long run. Depending on the thickness, they’re also good at soundproofing. 

3. Conduct Maintenance on Your HVAC System

The HVAC system will do plenty of heavy lifting in winter. However, if these components are packed with dust, debris and other gunk, the machine will work twice as hard and increase your energy bills.

To prevent this, perform maintenance on your HVAC system. Ideally, you’d have a professional technician provide an inspection and tuneup to ensure everything is running as efficiently as possible before the cold weather arrives. Consult with companies in your area to determine if it’s still safe to perform these services.

You should also clean your HVAC system’s air filters and remove snow or dirt from the outdoor unit. That way, you get optimal airflow throughout your home.  

4. Be Mindful of Water Heating

Your water use can also impact your energy costs, especially when you’re heating it. Be mindful of its use. One of the best ways to do this is by opting for shorter showers than a long bath, which requires more liquid and, ultimately, more water heating. 

Additionally, taking a shower can be more sustainable. You can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 11% in winter by using a more efficient showerhead and preheating water during off-peak hours. 

Ensure that the water heater is off when brushing your teeth, washing your hands or cleansing your face. These activities can be done with cold water instead. If you have other water-related chores, such as washing clothes or dishes, consider using lukewarm or cold water as well. 

5. Utilize Natural and Efficient Lighting

The mornings are a good opportunity to conserve energy by powering down your lighting fixtures and enjoying the soothing natural light of the winter sun. Pull the curtains open during the day and let the light in.

You can also swap to more energy-efficient lighting options. LEDs consume 90% less electricity and are generally more eco-friendly compared to incandescent bulbs, which makes them a great choice. You can also opt for fluorescent lights or OLEDs for more vibrancy and color. 

6. Group up in the Home

If you live with other people, consider having periods where you’re all together in one room. That way, you could program your smart thermostat to focus on that area and turn the temperature down in others. 

Plus, it’s a great opportunity to bond with one another. You can arrange some fun winter activities, such as making crafts, watching a movie or playing board games. With luck, time will fly by, and you’ll have saved plenty of energy. 

7. Unplug Appliances

Have you ever left a device plugged in? It still uses energy and is responsible for 20% of your monthly energy bills. Plus, if a power surge occurs, you’ll likely damage or weaken your belongings in the long run.

As a general rule, remember to unplug items when they’re not in use. You can also get smart plugs for key appliances and schedule when they’re supposed to turn on. Some variations will also offer energy monitoring, which can help you pinpoint how much power you’re using. 

8. Learn to Cook in Batches

Meal prepping is a sustainable practice that’s great year-round, but it especially comes in handy in winter. By reducing the frequency of cooking, you can save on energy. There are fewer dishes to clean in the long run, too. 

Remember to portion properly. Throwing away less food can help avoid wasting up to $56 per week. Also, make hot foods. Very few things are quite as filling and warming as a bowl of your favorite soup this season. 

9. Dress Warmer in Layers Indoors

Another way you can stay cozy without using energy is by dressing more warmly indoors. Try putting on a couple of layers to keep warm, or even just a nice fuzzy sweater that you can lounge in. This is especially helpful if you’re following the tip on turning the thermostat down. 

If you’re OK with using a little energy without turning on your heaters, consider getting heated blankets. These can offer direct warmth that is more than welcome during the colder days of the year. 

Stay Warm This Winter

Be intentional about your habits and device management, as saving energy lowers your costs and frees up money for other things. Plus, you’ll be more environmentally friendly and eco-conscious. That’s something that should warm your heart.