After a hot summer, it’s exciting to welcome cooler weather as we transition into winter, but if you’re not careful, higher energy consumption can sneak in too. Fall is the ideal time to switch the energy saving tools and habits used throughout your home to make sure you’re set up for savings when your next energy bill arrives. Below are some ways you can save on your energy bills this season.
LET THE SUN HEAT UP YOUR ROOMS
Use curtains or blinds to your advantage. During the day, opening the curtains to let in sunlight from south-facing windows will help warm the room without using any extra energy. In the afternoon, close curtains/blinds to hold in heat and keep the chill out.
SEAL CRACKS, LEAKS AND DRAFTS
Check your windows and doors for gaps and open areas that could let heat out or cold in and use weatherstripping or caulking to seal them. Additionally, you should check entries to unfinished spaces and chimneys for gaps.
REPROGRAM YOUR THERMOSTAT
As we move into cooler weather, find a temperature you like and leave it there for day-to-day use. If you’re going to be away for a while, set it lower. A programmable or smart thermostat is a great way to stay on track as you can set it and forget it.
REVERSE CEILING FANS
When you set the direction of the fan to turn clockwise, it pushes warm air that has risen to the ceiling back down into the room. It also helps to redistribute air so the air coming out of the vents reaches all parts of the room rather than having warmer and cooler pockets of air in different areas.
REPLACE YOUR INDOOR AIR FILTER
When dust and dirt build up on HVAC filters, it makes the entire system work harder than it needs to, which uses more energy. Set a reminder to change your filters monthly or sign up for a subscription to keep your system working at an optimal level.
