After a somewhat mild early autumn, the weather’s finally taken a turn toward the chillier temps that we expect from Mid-November in Northeastern Wisconsin. It just wouldn’t be the holiday season without being able to see your breath! Dare we hope for a great cross country skiing season? Ice fishing? However you enjoy your winter, it’s definitely time to put those storm windows in and check your furnace filter!
We assembled some basic Fall/Winter energy conservation tips. These are all things that you can do immediately (or over a weekend) to start saving money on next month’s utility bill!
Go on an incandescent bulb hunt! The old, power-hungry bulbs have been off the market for over a year, but there may still be some lurking around. Replace them with more efficient ones and save real money. LEDs are more than 5 times more efficient and last much, much longer.
Drive a stake through power vampires! Most of us are paying $8 per month to keep appliances plugged-in when we’re not using them. That power supply plugged into your wall that feels warm to the touch? Bad news, it’s an energy vampire! Unplug it or consider getting a ‘smart power strip.’
Send your thermostat to college! Replacing your old thermostat with a smart one that will save you money is an easy DIY job that probably costs less than you think.
Protest the draft (coming through your doors and windows)! Feel that cool air coming through the corners and edges of your doors and windows? It’s replacing the warm air you paid to heat. Say enough is enough and seal those cracks with caulk, weatherstripping, and insulation! Or better yet, take it to the next level and call an IRA HOMES certified contractor and bring in the pros (there are rebates).
Get your water heater out of hot water! Most water heaters are set to a default of 140° Fahrenheit, but most people only really need it to be 120° to be comfortable. That difference can cost you as much as $5 per month. You can reset your water heater’s thermostat, use a thermometer if necessary. If you have an electric water heater, you can save an additional $1.50 a month by insulating it.
Don’t let your cash go up the chimney! If you have a fireplace, make sure that the damper is closed. If you don’t use it, plug it and seal it.
Have a window covering game plan! In Winter, let the sun in during the day to heat your home, then close your curtains at night to stay cozy.