As the days get shorter and the air gets colder, many people start thinking about how much their next energy bill will be. But with some preparation, it is actually not that difficult to keep your home warm without spending a lot of money.
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Seal drafts.
Check for drafts along the corners of your windows, under doors, and even around wall outlets. If you find those areas, seal them with weather strips, caulk, or a fabric draft stopper.
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Service your heating system.
During the cold months, your furnace or boiler will be in use almost constantly. So you should have a professional technician inspect it soon. A professional can replace old filters, clean the ducts, and check that everything runs efficiently. A well-maintained heating system will use less energy to heat your home, and that means your utility bill stays lower, too.
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Use smart thermostat settings.
Programmable and smart thermostats can automatically lower the temperature when you are away or sleeping. Even turning down the thermostat a few degrees can save you money.
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Let in sunlight during the day.
Open your curtains and blinds during the day to flood your rooms with sunlight. It costs nothing but will naturally warm your home. Then, when the sun goes down, close the same curtains and blinds to keep the heat inside your home.
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Watch how you use hot water.
Heating water requires a surprising amount of energy. You can set your water heater to 120°F, which is warm enough for everything while still saving energy. If you can, add some insulation to the pipes so the hot water stays hot while it moves through your home. These small changes can help keep your home warm and save money throughout fall and winter.
