For Michigan residents, the cost per kWh for electricity is $16.07, up from $15.87 about a year ago. The slight rise in costs can be attributed to the rise in inflation in recent years. As a result of this increase, you may be seeing increases in your electric bill this winter. Although you can’t do anything about the impact inflation has on your energy bill, you can do some unique things to help bring down your energy costs.
Electricians have several energy saving tips for homeowners that are easy to do.
Start With Your HVAC System
Before performing energy audits anywhere else in your home, start with your HVAC system. Before the colder months settle in, it is a good idea to call a local HVAC company to perform an energy tune-up to ensure your HVAC system runs optimally. If your system needs major repairs or replacement, a technician can warn you well in advance to avoid it failing on a cold Michigan night. They can also change your filters.
Another thing you should consider is cleaning out your ducts. Many homeowners don’t realize how much dust, debris, pests, and other items get compacted in their ducts year after year. Cleaning your vents will not only help you and your family breathe easier but will also minimize overuse of your HVAC system, which is causing high energy bills.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
Now that you’ve cleaned your HVAC system and ensured it’s operating properly, getting a programmable or smart thermostat is a good idea. So much money goes down the drain keeping the heat running, particularly when the family isn’t home. Having a thermostat that you can program or access via your smartphone will allow you to reduce the use of the heat while you’re away. This will enable you to access your thermostat at any time.
Reduce the Thermostat a Few Degrees
Most experts agree that you should set your thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees in winter. However, reducing your heat by one or two degrees could help you save if you can sacrifice a few more degrees.
Use Heated Cables for Pipes
Your heater primarily keeps you and your family cozy in winter. However, it also helps to keep your pipes from freezing. If you decide to reduce your thermostat by fewer degrees than recommended in winter, you run the risk of damaging your pipes. To prevent this, it is a good idea to purchase heated cables for your pipes so they won’t be affected by fluctuations in your heating system throughout the day.
Close Your Fireplace Flue
What is that extremely cold burst of wind you feel every time you walk past your fireplace? It’s probably cold air coming from your fireplace flue being open. If you want to avoid turning up your heat, ensure your flue is closed.
Use Heavier Window Covers
If you’ve installed energy-efficient windows or sealed your windows appropriately for the winter and still feel drafts near your windows, you may need heavier window covers. Buying and hanging curtains made of heavier, denser material can help minimize the drafts near your window and minimize your reliance on your furnace.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
As you know, heat rises. If you have ceiling fans in your home, you can help redistribute this heated air trapped in the ceilings by reversing the direction of your fan. Instead of cooling your room, reversing the fan will push the warm air back around the room.
Reduce Your Water Heater Temperature
A warm shower is very enjoyable. However, it can be pretty expensive. Warming up your water takes plenty of electrical power in winter. To help reduce your bill, it is a good idea to lower your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and minimize your time in the shower. Reducing your water temperature could help you save 3 to 5 percent on your energy bill.
Purchase Heated Blankets or Throws
If you plan to reduce the temperature in your home, especially at night while you sleep, it could get very cold. Instead of relying on the warmth of traditional comforters, you may want to purchase heated blankets. If you plan to watch a movie on the sofa, you can avoid increasing the thermostat temperature by purchasing a heated throw blanket.
Air Dry Your Clothes
If you’re used to using the heated cycle in your dryer, this may be driving up the cost of your energy bill. To help you save this winter, you can opt to dry your clothes without heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any other ways to save on electric bills?
Yes. If you have the budget to do so, investing in solar energy is a good idea. Michigan currently ranks 26th in the nation for solar energy. The federal government is offering a 30 percent tax incentive to help with installation to help reduce costs. Converting to solar energy can help reduce energy costs in summer and winter.
Can heated floors help me save?
Yes. Installing heated flooring may be a good idea for rooms that are frequently cold and require a lot of energy to warm. Bathrooms, which are frequently used in the winter, could benefit from radiant flooring, minimizing the need to rely heavily on heating.
Will natural light help improve savings on my energy bill?
Yes. The sun’s heat can help keep your home warm. So, to reduce your reliance on energy, allow sunlight into your home during daylight hours.
Electrical Contractors are Here to Help you Save!
Do you need help getting your home ready for winter? Our electricians at Bratcher Electric in Wayne can check your home for electrical issues and offer tips on how you can save on your electric bill this winter.
Our electrical services check all the boxes when it comes to your home or business. We address everything from home rewiring, service upgrades and changes to power surge protection, Standby generator service and more. Call for a Free Consultation today!