Friday, January 10th is National Cut Your Energy Costs Day — a perfect time to start thinking about how to save on your energy bill and simultaneously help the planet.
But during the winter, cutting down your electricity costs looks a little different.
We’ve compiled recommendations from the U.S. Department of Energy to help you find ways to run a more energy-efficient and cold-proof home.
Leaky windows are letting in cold air and letting out heat. Make sure yours are properly sealed. If they aren’t, consider caulking gaps, using weatherstripping, or installing window insulation to prevent air from escaping.
Central heating units have filters that capture all sorts of bad stuff, like dust and pollen. But a dirty or old filter will make your heater less efficient. Check your filter and if it’s past its prime, change it. The Department of Energy recommends changing it at least once every three months.
New technology can help run your home more efficiently, and you might get money back for installing them too. The Inflation Reduction Act created a series of tax credits, rebates, and other incentives to help bring your home into the modern era. Consider upgrading your windows to be more energy efficient or looking into getting a heat pump if it’s applicable to your home.
It might seem obvious, but adjusting your thermostat when you’re not home can save you huge amounts of money. Installing a smart thermostat can help you easily program your home’s temperature and make sure you’re setting the temperature more accurately.
Your ceiling fan isn’t only for the summer. Reverse its direction and the fan will circulate warm air from the top of the room and bring in down to you. But don’t keep it on when you’re not in the room, or that could drive up costs.
The post The best ways to save money on energy bills this winter appeared first on Quartz.
