As it continues to get colder, it’s important to ensure that you’re not wasting heat. Here are 10 tips to help you keep your home heated and keep your energy bills low:
1. Use the sun to your advantage
Even in the winter, the sun can warm your home. To maximize this effect, open the curtains to all of your south-facing windows during the day and then close them again at night. This will let in the most amount of heat during the day while keeping the cold out at night.
In addition to opening curtains on south-facing windows during the day, consider placing dark-colored rugs or furniture in sunny spots to absorb and radiate heat. This passive solar heating can further reduce your reliance on artificial heating sources.
2. Dress warmly
One of the simplest ways to stay warm this winter is to wear proper clothing while indoors, as well as use other accessories, like blankets. This allows you to stay comfortable while keeping the heat low.
3. Keep your ceiling fans on
If you have ceiling fans, keeping them on in the winter can help you lower your heating costs. Ceiling fans typically have a switch on them that changes the direction it rotates. In the summer, the airflow should be directed down to cool off the room. In the winter, making the fan go in the opposite direction helps heat the room. This setting pushes warm air that has risen back down into the living space. Running the fan at a low speed in this direction can make rooms feel warmer, allowing you to lower the thermostat and save on heating costs.
4. Lower the thermostat at night
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lowering your thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees at night while you sleep can save you 10 percent on your heating bills. Add another blanket, and keep the thermostat set low.
Utilizing flannel sheets and heavier blankets can keep you warm during cooler nighttime temperatures, making it easier to lower the thermostat. Additionally, wearing thermal sleepwear adds an extra layer of insulation, enhancing comfort without the need for extra heating.
5. Use a programmable thermostat
Newer thermostats are programmable, allowing you to set temperature levels for specific times of the day. These ensure that your homes get heated efficiently without you having to remember to adjust the thermostat. For instance, setting it to lower the temperature during work hours and raise it before you return home maximizes comfort and savings.
6. Clean your furnace
Heating oil furnaces, and the immediate surrounding area, should be kept clean. This is not only a safety concern, but doing so will help it work efficiently and keep heating costs down. Regular maintenance of your furnace, including cleaning or replacing filters, ensures it operates efficiently, reducing energy consumption. A well-maintained furnace not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of the equipment, preventing costly repairs.
7. Use a humidifier
Moist air holds heat better than dry air. Adding a humidifier to your home will help keep your home be heated efficiently.
Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30-50% can make the air feel warmer, allowing for lower thermostat settings. Humidifiers also help prevent dry skin and respiratory discomfort commonly associated with heated indoor air during winter.
8. Add more insulation to your home
Poorly insulated homes loose a lot of heat, causing your heating system to work harder than needed. Proper insulation in attics, walls, and floors prevents heat loss, keeping your home warmer and reducing heating costs. Focus on areas like basements and crawl spaces, which are often overlooked but can significantly impact overall energy efficiency. Also check the areas around doors and windows and plug any gaps you find.
9. Avoid using exhaust fans
Exhaust fans, like those in bathrooms and kitchens, are important for maintaining air quality indoors, but should be used sparingly in the winter, as they can remove good, warm air as a side effect. Consider installing timers to ensure fans run only as long as needed, minimizing heat loss.
10. Switch to LED lights
LED bulbs consume up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and emit less heat, contributing to overall energy savings. They also have a longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated costs. According to U.S. News, they can last up to 24 times longer than standard light bulbs.
Performing these and other maintenance tasks will ensure your home is heated efficiently and lower your energy costs this winter.