Plenty of people are planning to pull out the thick socks and snuggie as they try to save on their electric bill this winter season. When you lower the temperature on your thermostat during the chilly months, you are also lowering your electric bill, too. It is that simple. Yet, there are so many other steps you can take to continue this frugal trend. Starting with turning down the heat, check out our tips for lowering your winter costs.
Cuddle by the fireplace
There is something about the crackling sounds of a burning fire that says winter. Who wouldn’t want to grab a cup of cocoa and a pair of slippers, then cuddle up in front of the fireplace. While this is a tradition of the season, it is also a practical source of heat. So in addition to turning down the thermostat and keeping a few throw blankets handy, also take a moment to enjoy the fireplace if your home features one of these. Go ahead and roast some marshmallows, too.
Bake away the bbbrrrrr….
The winter season is rather notorious for what we call the “foods of the season”. All that home-cooked goodness can also serve as a heater. Plan to run your dryer and your oven during the coldest parts of the day and let these appliances contribute to the heat in your home.
Reduce the hot water temperature
Have you ever even looked to see what your hot water heater is set at? Everyone likes a “hot” shower, but usually you can turn your hot water heater down by 20 degrees and not even notice a difference from the spout. Try it out! You can also purchase a water heater blanket/ jacket. This is especially helpful if you live in a very cold climate, as opposed to regions with more mild winters.
Insulate your home
A well-insulated home is vital to your overall energy expenses year round, but this is one category that you will need to evaluate closely. Updating the insulation in a home can mean paying a large chunk of change up front, so you will want to weigh the long-term saving to see how soon you will recoup your investment and move in the direction of money saving. Properly winterizing your windows can help prevent heat loss. Couple your winterizing efforts with insulated curtains and you’ll greatly reduce the amount of heat and money that go out the window.
Watch – and budget for – your holiday expenses
From the plane tickets to go visit family, to the Christmas presents under the tree, the winter season brings with it certain added expenses that come around just once a year. However, you know all year that these will be among your winter bills so the potential to budget accordingly is there. And if it is too late to take these measures, then try a gift exchange or fly on non-peak dates and times. Whatever steps you decide to take to lower your bills during the chilliest days of the year, may you also enjoy all the warmth this season has to offer!
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