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As the weather turns colder, many of us start cranking up the thermostat to stay warm. But, with energy rates at historic highs, you may dread opening your next winter electricity bill.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep your bill manageable – and even save money on your energy costs. Here are proven tips from ElectricityRates.com for getting through the winter without paying an arm and a leg for power.
With these simple tips, you’ll be sure to stay within budget this winter – no matter where you call home or how far the temperatures plummet.
Get A Smart Thermostat
If you want to reduce your energy bill, consider equipping your home with a smart thermostat. They are energy-efficient devices that boast various features, such as temperature scheduling and automated adjustments based on occupancy. Check if your thermostat has an ‘eco’ mode for further savings.
Experts recommend lowering your thermostat a few degrees during the day and then lowering it even more at night. You can save as much as 10% off your heating bill by turning your thermostat down 7 to 10 degrees for just 8 hours a day.
Maintain Your Heating Systems
- Schedule routine service for home heating systems.
- Replace furnace and heat pump filters once a month or as needed. Find out more about maintaining furnaces or boilers, and heat pumps here.
- Clean the flue vent and inside the chamber of wood and pellet burning heaters with a wire brush periodically to ensure it is heating efficiently. Find other maintenance recommendations for wood- and pellet-burning appliances here.
Seal Up Drafts In Your Home
Drafty homes are not only uncomfortable, but they also let heat escape, which means higher energy bills. Sealing the gaps in your home can make a big difference on your power bill. Take a little time to inspect your windows and doors for any drafts. Invest in simple weatherizing techniques such as caulking or draught exclusion strips.
Consider installing weatherstripping to help block out drafts and minimize the amount of energy used to heat your home. This is especially effective around windows and doorways. It’s a simple project you can do yourself on any weekend, and it will allow you to keep your electricity bills under control while keeping the indoor temperature comfortable.
To take things to the next level, Google your local insulation companies and ask them for a free audit where they come out to the property and identify your most significant energy-draining black holes. Seal any leaks and reinforce insulation where needed (including your pipes) to maximize savings and reduce your environmental impact.
Keep Indoors Warm Naturally
There are many natural ways to keep your home warm that do not require electricity. One of the easiest things you can do is to dress warmly indoors. Wearing multiple layers rather than cranking up the heat will keep you just as comfortable–and save you money on your power bill.
You can also invest in thick-lay rugs, blankets, and drapes to keep things cozy. Also, make sure to open the blinds during the sunny parts of the day to take advantage of the natural heating from the sun.
Educate Yourself On Electricity Rates
Costs and provider options vary depending on where you live, so it’s essential to do your research. As temperatures drop, people need to take action to ensure their electricity plans are reliable and within budget. Can you imagine going to turn the heat on during an arctic blast only to find you’ve got no power? It can be a frightening experience.
ElectricityRates.com makes it easy to shop for your perfect provider. You can quickly educate yourself on rates and find the plan that fits your needs. To learn more about which Americans get to select their electricity provider (Energy Choice states), see our article.
With our rating system, you have access to valuable information on price history, customer reviews, hidden fees, contract terms, and everything else you need to find the right provider for you and your loved ones.
Don’t just settle for a random electricity plan; put your ZIP Code in the search bar above to get started immediately.
Conclusion
Following the tips above, you can save money on your electricity bill as temperatures fall. Some tips, like installing a smart thermostat, require an initial investment but will save you money in the long run. Others, like dressing warmly indoors and sealing up drafts, are simple and inexpensive ways to reduce your power consumption almost immediately.
Whatever strategies you choose to implement for you and your family, be sure to shop around for the best electricity rates on ElectricityRates.com. We do all the heavy lifting for you and instantly send you the best recommendations in your local area code.
Also, if you or a loved one is concerned about making it safely through winter power outages, read our article on how to weather winter blackouts. Surprisingly, 1 in 4 Americans are at risk this year of experiencing rolling power outages.
