1. Make smart heating choices

Heat is essential during the colder months, but heating your home can make up half of your energy costs. Stay savvy when it comes to running your furnace to warm your home with a few simple adjustments.

– Perform any seasonal maintenance on your heating system.

– Give your home time to warm once the heater is turned on. Bursts of hot air won’t make it warm any faster.

– Be sure dirty air filters aren’t making your system work harder; clean regularly and replace them as needed.

– Reverse your ceiling fan. Position the blade direction clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling to the floor.

– Don’t block vents or registers, so heat has a clear path into the room.

– Use the sun to your advantage by opening curtains and blinds during the day (especially on the south side of your house). Close them at night to reduce drafts.

2. Weatherize your home

With cooler temperatures and fewer insects around, it’s a perfect time for home maintenance. Making a few changes to your home can help you save on energy costs and help the planet.

– Upgrade your windows from single to double pane (watch for ENERGY STAR options to increase your savings). If that’s out of your budget, utilize coverings like blinds, drapes, solar film, or shades.

– Check insulation thickness and add more if necessary.

– Weatherize your home using caulk or weather stripping. Seal air leaks around letter drops, vents, door frames, and windows. Don’t forget the attic, where there are small openings that are often overlooked.

– Upgrade your appliances to the most energy-efficient options. Watch for ENERGY STAR labels and ensure the size matches your needs.

3. Adjust your appliance use

Your appliances got a serious workout during the summer heat, so give them a break. Making a few minor adjustments to your appliances can help you conserve energy and save money.

– Turn your refrigerator to an energy-saving setting.

– Reduce the temperature to 120° on your water heater and wrap an insulating blanket around it.

– Be sure to wash laundry in warm or cold water.

4. Use smart gadgets

Thanks to advances in smart technology, it’s easy to automate your home to fit your unique lifestyle. Best of all, taking advantage of smart gadgets can help you save on energy costs in your home.

– Opt for LED lights. They use 90% less electricity and last longer than traditional bulbs.

– Use smart power strips to turn off your electronics. You can even create a master setting to automate your usage.

– Programmable thermostats allow you to customize heating schedules that fit your routine.

– Use motion sensors and timers for outside lighting to minimize unnecessary use.

– Use solar lighting for your lawn and garden.

It’s easy to stay eco-friendly when you tap into our cold weather energy tips. Our Green Living Tips have even more ways to live greener while saving a little green when temperatures drop.