Household energy consumption can increase in winter as we illuminate and heat our homes to make us feel more comfortable. To help increase your home’s energy efficiency this winter and save money, consider these tips:
1. Add Warmth with Natural Light
To help decrease the demand on your heating system, open the curtains and blinds during the day and leverage the sun as a natural heating source to warm your home. When the sun goes down, close heavy curtains and blinds to insulate from cold evening air and reduce energy loss through your windows.
2. Eliminate Drafts
A sealed home is a warm home. Inspect external doors and windows for air leaks. If you feel a draft, check the weatherstripping, reapply, and recaulk if necessary to seal cracks and gaps. Old windows can be a significant source of heat loss, increasing your energy bills by up to 25%. If you decide to replace your windows, ensure they are ENERGY STARⓇ certified for excellent energy efficiency.
3. Install a Storm Door
Storm doors protect your entry door against ice and snow while providing an extra layer of insulation to help regulate the temperature indoors. A storm door can help prevent drafts and energy loss through your front entrance.
4. Circulate Warm Air
Close off unused rooms, vents and doors to redirect warm air where you need it most. Reverse the directional flow of ceiling fans to create an updraft and circulate warm air around the room.
5. Use LED Light Bulbs
We use more electricity during the holidays and winter months to light up our homes. LED bulbs are up to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. Swap out old light bulbs and use LED Christmas lights to save money and increase your home’s energy efficiency this winter.
6. Install Insulated Siding
Consider available energy-efficient options if you plan to upgrade your siding, even after winter ends. Heavy-duty insulated siding can provide your home with significant energy savings from an internal layer of rigid foam insulation.