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This article is about the ways how to save energy during winter. Generally speaking, during the cold season the energy bills are very high for any budget, so all the tips meant to reduce the heating costs are welcomed. Consequently, we will share with you our experience gained from the numerous projects we have carried on over the years.
Most of us imagine that one has to pay a great amount of money in order to improve the thermal efficiency of the house or one could think that getting a warm temperature should at a great cost. On the contrary, the little things play a huge role, both on your comfort and budget. Just remember to apply all this tips as soon as possible to save money on energy bills, as the cold season is knocking at the door.
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In order to save money during winter, you need the following:
Materials
- Caulk and weatherstripping
- Mineral wool/fiberglass
- Programmable thermostat
- Polyurethane foam
- Radiator thermostat valve
Tools
- Utility knife
- Calking gun
Tips
- Keep fireplace damper closed if there isn’t a fire on
- It is important to get your heating system serviced by qualified specialists
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Easy tips to save energy
Insulate attics and walls air leaks with polyurethane foam, as to save you money on your heating costs and reduce the amount of energy used to warm your house.
Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal the air leaks you might have on your windows. In order to check if you are losing heat through your windows, just take a look attentively around the window frames and see if there are any gaps or if you notice cold air coming in. In addition, you have to replace all the broken glass in your windows.
Install mineral wool insulation between ceiling studs and in attic. At first glance, it might not look much, but we can assure you can feel the difference immediately. The mineral wool or fiberglass are very efficient and make the best insulation materials for your home.
In order save energy during winter, you also have to change furnace filters on a regular basis, monthly wit would be ideally. Nevertheless, remember that there are several types of filters that can be washed, so you don’t have to buy a new one every month.
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Install thermostat valves on all radiators in your house, as to control efficiently the temperature in each room. For example, let’s assume that you need to heat only one room, and you don’t want to close the rest of the radiators. The best solution is to install thermostat valves to your radiators; in this way it will be easy to set the temperature you want in any room. In addition, you can reduce or increase the temperature according to day or night.
Check if you have any leaking ducts. Strange as it might seam, any duct leaking means wasted money, so fix the problem using metal tape or a proper sealant.
Use the sun light in your own benefit. There are many people who make one of the biggest mistakes possible when talking about saving energy: they leave the curtains close all day long. Instead, you should open the curtains and remove any material or object, which can restrict the sun light to enter in your room. Nevertheless, you should close them every night, as they prevent losing the warmth through the windows.
Set the temperature as low as to still steel feel comfortable in the room. Do not set the thermostat too low, otherwise you risk getting a flu, and you won’t make any saving at all. Nevertheless, don’t be scared to wear a sweater, as you will better and you will be able to reduce the heating cost up to 5%. Do not forget to reduce the temperature when leaving the house; the best method is to buy a programmable thermostat which is very useful in any house.
You probably didn’t know that water heating accounts for about 20% of your monthly heating bill. Consequently, you could also reduce energy cost by lowering the water temperature to about 120º F/50º C. Another good idea is to install a thermostat shower mixer, they come at a decent price and you can set the water temperature when taking a shower and consequently, you avoid burning your skin due to hot water.
Change your incandescent light bulbs with modern energy saving light bulbs. It might seam useless to you, but if you take into consideration that during winter we tend to use a lot more the artificial light  and you add the energy saving for each light bulb, you will get surprised on how much money you will end up saving by just replacing the light bulbs. They are now available in such a variety of forms and sizes, that you won’t find it difficult choosing a proper one for your light fixtures. In addition, save energy by unplugging any device that you are not using.
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My best tips to save energy during winter:
Winter is the time when heating bills can skyrocket, but with a few smart changes, you can keep your home warm without wasting energy (or money!). Whether you’re looking to cut costs or reduce your carbon footprint, these tips will help you stay cozy while saving energy this winter.
1. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors
Cold air sneaking in through gaps and cracks is one of the biggest culprits for heat loss. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps around windows and doors. For older windows, consider adding window insulation film, which can provide an extra barrier against the cold.
2. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home. Lowering the temperature by just a few degrees at night or while you’re out can significantly reduce your heating bills without sacrificing comfort.
3. Insulate Your Home Properly
Good insulation is key to keeping warm air inside your home. Make sure your attic, walls, and floors are well insulated. If your insulation is outdated or insufficient, upgrading to materials like spray foam, fiberglass batts, or blown-in insulation can make a big difference in reducing heat loss.
4. Close Off Unused Rooms
If you have rooms that aren’t being used regularly, such as guest rooms or storage spaces, close the doors and seal off the vents in those areas. This reduces the space your heating system has to warm, making it more efficient.
5. Let the Sun Do the Work
Take advantage of natural heat by opening your curtains or blinds during the day to let in sunlight, especially on south-facing windows. Close them at night to add an extra layer of insulation and keep the warmth inside.
6. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer! In the winter, set your fan to run in reverse (clockwise) at a low speed. This pushes the warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the room, helping you feel warmer without cranking up the thermostat.
7. Service Your Heating System
Regular maintenance keeps your heating system running efficiently. Replace the air filters every few months and schedule an annual service checkup for your furnace or boiler. This can prevent breakdowns and ensure your system is operating at peak performance.
8. Install Insulated Curtains
Heavy, insulated curtains or thermal drapes can help keep the heat inside and block cold drafts from your windows. They’re an easy and stylish way to boost your home’s insulation without major renovations.
9. Add Rugs for Extra Warmth
Hardwood or tile floors can get chilly in the winter, making your home feel colder. Adding area rugs or carpets can help insulate the floors and provide an extra layer of warmth, keeping your feet cozy and reducing the need to crank up the heat.
10. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature
Most water heaters are set to 140°F by default, but lowering it to 120°F can save energy without sacrificing comfort. It reduces the amount of energy needed to heat your water, which can make a noticeable impact on your energy bill.
Bonus Tip: Dress for the Season! Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. Layering up with warm clothes and using cozy blankets can help you feel comfortable at lower indoor temperatures, meaning you can set your thermostat a bit lower and still stay warm.
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With these easy, practical tips, you can reduce your energy use during the winter months and keep your home cozy without breaking the bank. Implementing even a few of these ideas can make a noticeable difference in your energy bills and your comfort!
Thank you for reading our article on how to save energy during winter, we hope you have found ways to save energy in the home, and we recommend you to check out the rest of our articles related to saving money. Please LIKE and SHAREÂ our articles with your friends, by using the social media widgets.
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