Welcome to another year of freezing temperatures, mostly from lake-effect snow, which will take a toll on your home utility costs. Beyond the usual cold-weather cost increases, you can expect higher electricity rates this year.
With Michigan homeowners already facing higher winter heating costs, managing household energy consumption is especially important.
Recent utility rate increases provide another reason to look for practical ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
To minimize the impact of these unforeseen events on your expenses, here are a few ways to proactively lower your bills.
Seal off Drafty Doors and Windows
One of the best ways to keep high electric bills from devastating your budget is to seal doors and windows now to block drafts. According to EnergyStar.com, sealing air leaks around your home can help save on your energy bills.
Unsealed doors and windows let cold air seep in, making those areas much colder than the rest of the room or house. As a result, your heater has to work harder to heat the house, leading to higher energy bills and a greater risk of unnecessary HVAC repairs.
Weatherstripping prevents air leaks, letting heat circulate more effectively without overtaxing your HVAC system.
Reduce the Thermostat While Away
Another way to save this season is by reducing your thermostat if you plan to be away most of the day. According to Energy.gov, setting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees lower while you’re away during the day can cut your heat bill by 10 percent.
When you lower your thermostat to save money, you could put your water pipes at risk of bursting, especially on very cold days. To reduce this risk, especially for pipes under sinks near exterior walls, open cabinets to let heat reach those areas during the day.
Also, use the slow-drip method to keep your pipes from freezing. Foam pipe sleeves may also help improve pipe insulation against cold air.
Get a Smart Thermostat
If you don’t want to walk into a cold house in the evenings, consider investing in a smart thermostat. These devices allow you to lower the temperature while you’re away and automatically warm your home before you return, helping reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
Before purchasing, make sure the thermostat is compatible with your home’s heating system and electrical wiring. A licensed electrician can help determine compatibility and assist with proper installation when electrical modifications are needed.
Reverse the Ceiling Fan
In addition to lowering your thermostat, reversing your ceiling fan can help distribute heat. In warmer months, run the fan counterclockwise to cool the air. In colder months, run it clockwise on low to redistribute warm air trapped near the ceiling.
Reduce Your Water Heater a Few Degrees
Although this may sound counterintuitive, especially in cold months, this can reduce your heating costs by an additional 3 to 5 percent. Most water heaters are set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Lowering it to about 120 degrees Fahrenheit can keep your water warm enough to be comfortable while saving.
Lowering your water heater reduces demand for direct heating, which can increase energy bills.
Avoid Using Space Heaters
If one room is colder than another, you may be tempted to use a space heater. However, relying on portable electric heaters can significantly increase your electricity bills, especially when used for extended periods.
A better long-term solution may involve improving insulation, sealing drafts, or addressing uneven heating throughout your home. If supplemental electric heating is necessary, a licensed electrician can evaluate your home’s electrical circuits to ensure they can safely handle the additional demand.
Cut Back on Phantom Energy
Another way to cut back on energy bills by 5 to 10 percent is to eliminate phantom energy in the home. Phantom energy is caused by items that are plugged in but not running or items that are operating in standby mode.
Although these items aren’t active, they are still using energy. Plugging these items into smart power strips can help. Also, unplugging them when not in use can also help.
Clean the Refrigerator Coils
Your refrigerator is the one thing in your home that runs non-stop. As the year goes on, the coils collect plenty of dust, dirt, pet dander, and more. This forces the compressor to work harder and longer. Keeping the coils cleaned at least quarterly can allow the compressor to work more efficiently, reducing your energy bills.
Insulate the Attic and Other Drafty Rooms
Of all of these tips to reduce your electric bill, the best thing you can do for your home to improve the energy efficiency this winter and in warm months is to install or improve the insulation, especially in the attic. Insulating your home can cut costs up to 15 percent.
Lower Your Winter Energy Costs with Help from Bratcher Electric
Cold weather and rising utility rates make it more important than ever to understand how your home uses electricity.
Bratcher Electric in Wayne, Michigan, helps homeowners throughout Southeast Michigan with professional residential electrical services, including electrical inspections, lighting upgrades, and electrical improvements designed to support a safer, more efficient home. We also specialize in backup power system installation and maintenance to help keep your home powered during unexpected outages.
Contact us today!