20 Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in Winter

November 22, 2024

After a pleasant fall, the temperatures have dropped.  That means it is time to turn on your furnace and get ready for those heating bills to start coming in.  Here we share ways to lower those heating bills, as well as other money-saving tips to reduce energy costs in winter.  But we will start with ways to reduce your heating bill.

Reduce Your Heating Bill

  1. Make sure your furnace has been tuned up and you are replacing the filter as needed.
  2. If you need a new furnace, invest in one with the highest AFUE you can afford. It will cost more, but you will save money in the long run through lower utility bills.
  3. Invest in a Wi-Fi thermostat that allows you to preset the temperature based on numerous factors such as time of day, day of week, etc.
  4. Keep the thermostat a few degrees cooler.
  5. To compensate for that cooler temperature, wear extra layers of clothing during the day and add a blanket during the night.
  6. Switch your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise, which will force hot air down. You only need to use the ceiling fan when you are in the room.
  7. Close the vents in rooms you do not use.
  8. Make sure furniture is not blocking the vents in rooms you do use.
  9. Seal or caulk any cracks or gaps in doors and windows to prevent cold air from entering your house.
  10. Keep the shades or blinds open during the day to let the sun warm your home. Close them at night.
  11. Insulate the areas of your home that need insulation, including your attic, crawl space, basement, etc.
  12. Use space heaters for small areas.
  13. Close the damper after you are done using the fireplace

Other Tips to Reduce Energy Costs in Winter

  1. Use energy-efficient LED lights to decorate your home for the holidays. In fact, you should use LED lights all year long.
  2. Use a timer to automatically shut off your holiday lights.
  3. Turn off all the lights when you leave a room, as well as all electronics.
  4. Adjust your water heater’s temperature to no hotter than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Only wash full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher.
  6. Wash your clothes with cold water.
  7. When it is time to replace appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, invest in ENERGY STAR products.

Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric to Reduce Winter Energy Costs

Ravinia Plumbing’s plumbers, HVAC technicians, and electricians can help you reduce energy costs in winter.  We can service your existing products to make sure they are operating at maximum efficiency.  We can also help you select and then install energy-efficient products. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 96 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.