7 Winter Energy Saving Ideas

All homeowners know that you should replace your furnace filter once a month or as often as needed. This keeps it clean and of optimal functioning. If you have a wood- and Pellet-Burning heating system you should clean the flue vent regularly and also the inside of the appliance with a wire brush to ensure efficient heating in your home. In addition, below are just a few changes that will save you a ton of money in the long run, and you will also be doing your part for the environment.

Insulation is Key

Everyone knows heat rises, so you can practically see those $$$ signs escaping through your roof in the cold weather. Insulation in your attic can save you up to 20% off your heating bill. That is, on average, a whopping $180 a year in hot air… Insulating your hot water tank and exposed hot water pipes can also contribute to a nice savings. Plus, turning your water heat down to 120’ instead of the normal 140’ that installers set it to, can save on heating cost as water heating accounts for between 14%-25% of your total energy consumed. Certain insulation qualifies for tax credit too.

Go Energy Efficient

Use energy efficient lights in your house, and during the holidays only use LED lights – they not only save energy, but are also a much lower risk of fire. When you replace your old appliances – opt for Energy Star appliances (note, different Energy Star appliances have different energy savings). Owning all Energy Star appliances can save you up to 30% off your energy bill too. Make sure it has the Energy Star logo on it though.

Lock Out the Breeze

Owning energy efficient doors and windows can save a lot too. Older windows/doors might have air leaks, either from their age or the fact that they were not installed right. Newer double pane windows have argon gas inside them that also increases the barrier between your cozy home and the outside elements. Replacing all your old doors and windows can save you up to 10% – 40% off your heating bill depending upon your specific scenario. If you’re unable to replace a door you could always use a long doorstop as a temporary quick fix or install door weather-stripping to help with the breeze under the door. Caulk can help with other leaks associated with windows and doors.

Fanning Backwards

It is said that most ceiling fans have a mechanism that you can use to change the airflow, so instead of cooling the air, it actually heats up the house by fanning up towards the warm air and forcing it back down. So you can save some $$$ on your heating by this very simple change.

Myth or Fact? Leave the Heat on All Day?

It has long been believed that leaving your heat on all day and all night saves energy as it takes a lot more energy to heat up a cold house than just maintaining a certain temperature. This is only half true – to be more energy efficient, you should turn the heat down, not off, while you’re either asleep or not home and turn it back up once you get home from work. Also try to rather wear a sweater inside with the heat turned as low as possible, while still comfortable. A programmable thermostat can make this change very easy to achieve and help save up to 10% off your heating bill.

Use Natural Elements

In the morning, before you leave for work, open up those curtains to let the sunlight bring in some natural and free heat. But remember to close them as soon as you get back as curtains (especially the energy saving ones) create an extra barrier, keeping the cold night air out and your natural heat in.

Service the Heating System

Call a service professional to service your heating system to ensure it’s running optimally. The last thing you need is your heating system using much more energy than needed or even overheating or breaking down in the dead of winter. If needed you could replace your old heating system with an energy saving one, then you might qualify for tax credit.