It’s finally getting cold in the District, and that means higher energy costs. According to the Department of Energy, as much as 20% of the energy we pay to heat our homes is wasted due to drafts and other inefficiencies. With a few simple DIY steps, you can reduce energy waste and save money this winter.
Seal Up Drafts
Insulation helps keep cold air out, and warm air in. But many homes have gaps. Conduct a quick search by walking around your home and identifying any spaces where you feel cold, drafty air. Then check for the source.
Window frames might need new caulking around them. Or, you can seal up older windows entirely with simple DIY film kits, which add an extra layer of transparent insulation around leaks. Grab an under door draft stopper. Or even get a kit to seal gaps around your outlets and light switches on external walls.
Turn Down Your Water Heater
Water heating consumes as much as 18% of an average American household’s energy costs. Lower this by lowering the temperature your water heater is set to maintain. Most manufacturers set water heaters to 140 F, but the DOE recommends setting it to 120 F. This can save you up to 10% of your costs! Here’s how.
Old windows may need to be resealed to avoid drafts. (Liudmila Chernetska/Getty Images)
Adjust Your Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat and lower the temperature when you’re not at home. Also, setting a schedule to lower temperatures at night can actually help you get a better night’s sleep.
Use Your Ceiling Fans
Not just for summer! Most ceiling fans have a switch to flip the direction they rotate and how they circulate air. Adjusting it to slowly rotate clockwise can force warmer air to move further down in the room.
Get Cozy
The simplest, easiest step you can take? Dress warmly. Trade out your T-shirts for sweaters and warm pants. Now is the perfect time to snuggle up under your favorite blanket on the couch or while working from home.
Do you have other tips for saving on winter heating costs?
