7 winter energy saving tips
∙ min read
As winter arrives, the allure of festive celebrations and cozy nights by the fireplace comes hand in hand with concerns about a significant increase in electricity consumption. Homeowners conscious of both environmental impact and economic implications often seek practical solutions to keep their homes warm and well-lit without compromising energy efficiency.
In this article, Max Warehouse presents several winter energy-saving tips. Each piece of advice is designed to assist individuals in optimizing electrical energy use while maintaining home comfort. If you're looking to keep the warmth inside your house while managing your energy bills, these strategies will prove invaluable.
- Insulation
Ensure that doors and windows are properly sealed to prevent heat leaks. Adequate insulation helps maintain indoor temperatures without the need for excessive heating.
Use transparent plastic sheets and seal them to window frames using adhesive tape. You might also consider weather strippings, typically made of EPDM rubber or high-performance silicone, providing superior sealing to block drafts around doors and windows.
Insulated curtains or blinds could be an option for those with a larger budget.
- Thermostat adjustment
It's always a good idea to set the thermostat to the lowest comfortable level for you, your family, and your pets. When you're away, lower the temperature slightly to save on long-term bills.
Installing a programmable thermostat is also a great option, allowing you to control the temperature at different times of the day. Automatically lowering the temperature at night or when absent can save energy significantly.
- Harness solar energy
During the day, open curtains on south-facing windows to allow sunlight to heat the house naturally. Remember to close them at night to retain warmth and keep out the cold.
Consider installing solar panels to generate your energy. These devices can convert sunlight into electricity even during winter and in sub-zero climates.
- Heating system maintenance
Regularly clean your heating system's filters and ensure it's functioning correctly.
Additionally, make it a point to regularly clean the exhaust vents of wood and pellet stoves using a wire brush to ensure efficient operation.
If you're unsure about performing these tasks, consider hiring a professional. However, don't skip this step in your winter home maintenance checklist. Apart from potential energy savings, these are vital steps to ensure your home's safety.
- Chimney attention
While a fireplace is a heat source that doesn't require electricity, it can contribute to heat loss when not used. It's like having an open window letting in the cold without proper protection. Therefore, your chimney should have a damper that remains closed when there's no fire burning.
As per Energy.gov, the recommendations when using the fireplace are as follows: “When using the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly--approximately 1 inch--and close doors leading into the room. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50° and 55°F”.
- Efficient Lighting
Swap out traditional bulbs for LED ones that consume less energy and last longer. Also, use LED Christmas lights to reduce the cost of decorating your home during the much-anticipated holiday season.
- Power Down Electronics
This basic step might be overlooked but could represent significant savings on electricity bills in the long run. Unplug devices and electronic appliances when not in use, as they still consume energy.
Max Warehouse: your home care ally
How did you find these winter tips for homeowners? In our blog, you'll discover much more information to prepare for severe weather, such as chimney cleaning tips, energy generator recommendations, fire prevention measures, and more.
We love providing advice to make your home a safe place. However, remember that winter is also a season for celebration. In our catalog, you'll find various products to illuminate and decorate this Christmas and kitchen utensils for your dinners.
Everything you need this winter is at Max Warehouse, so keep exploring our page. You'll undoubtedly find more than one solution to meet your needs.
Sources:
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/fall-and-winter-energy-saving-tips
- https://www.revisionenergy.com/solar-information/solar-resources/10-reasons-go-solar/works-in-winter#:~:text=Solar%20panels%20work%20in%20the%20winter.&text=However%2C%20thanks%20to%20solar%20panels,to%20work%20during%20the%20winter.
