20 Ways to Lower Your Winter Energy Bills
We're sending you 20 clever and practical ways to lower winter energy costs while staying warm and cozy all season.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
Winter bills can be costly, but a few innovative changes can help you stay cozy without overspending. This list shares tips for keeping your home comfortable, using less energy, and reducing costs. From simple fixes to smart upgrades, you’ll find plenty of ideas to help lower your expenses.
1. Keep Drafts in Their Place
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Those sneaky drafts can hike up your heating bill faster than you can say “brr.” Seal the gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or a trusty draft stopper. A little effort now means a lot more warmth later.
2. Smarten Up Your Thermostat
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Your thermostat shouldn’t just sit there; it should work for you. A programmable or smart thermostat adjusts the temperature when you’re out, so you’re saving energy without lifting a finger. Think of it as the tech-savvy roommate you always wanted.
3. Layer Up and Chill Out
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Why crank the heat when a cozy sweater and thick socks do the trick? Pile on those comfy layers, grab a blanket, and you’ll barely notice the thermostat is set lower. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse for fuzzy socks season.
4. Curtains That Do More
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Heavy curtains aren’t just for a dram; they’re great for blocking cold air. Open them during the day to soak in the sunlight and close them at night to keep the chill-out. It’s like giving your windows a warm hug.
5. Ceiling Fans Aren’t Just for Summer
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Flip the switch on your ceiling fan to spin clockwise. This clever trick will push warm air down where you need it, making your heating system work smarter, not harder. Who knew your fan could be a winter hero?
6. Cook Up Some Warmth
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Baking cookies or roasting veggies? Leave the oven door open after cooking to let the heat flow through your kitchen. As a bonus, your home will smell delicious and feel toasty.
7. Don’t Ignore Your Water Heater
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Your water heater doesn’t need to work overtime. Lower the temperature to around 120°F, which is still hot enough for comfort and will save you money. It’s a minor tweak with a big payoff.
8. Rugs That Work Overtime
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Bare floors can feel like walking on ice. Lay down some thick rugs to keep your toes warm and prevent heat from escaping through the floor. This is cozy, stylish, and practical.
9. Close the Door on Unused Rooms
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Why are you not using it? Close the doors to empty spaces, and your heating system can focus on the areas where you spend time. It’s like zoning your home without the fancy equipment.
10. Light up Wisely
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Switch to LED bulbs to save energy and keep your home bright. They use less electricity and last longer, so you can cut costs without compromising your lighting. These are bright ideas, literally.
11. Insulation Is Your Best Friend
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Sound insulation is like wrapping your home in a big, warm blanket. Check your attic, walls, and pipes to ensure they’re properly insulated. This investment pays off in comfort and savings.
12. Fireplace Fixes
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Fireplaces are cozy, but they can let heat escape. When not in use, plug the fireplace or close the damper. This will keep the warmth inside instead of sending it up the chimney.
13. Hot Drink, Cold Savings
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Instead of cranking up the heat, make a cup of hot tea or cocoa. A warm drink can keep you toasty without increasing your energy bill, making it budget-friendly comfort.
14. Space Heaters for the Win
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A space heater can quickly warm small areas without running your entire heating system. Just pick a safe, energy-efficient model and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for those chiller corners of your home.
15. Shut Out the Nighttime Chill
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Before bed, lock all your windows and doors tightly. This helps seal them better against the cold and prevents your heating efforts from slipping away overnight—sweet dreams in a snug home.
16. Unplug Energy Vampires
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Devices like chargers and appliances suck energy even when they’re not in use. Unplug them or use power strips to cut down on wasted electricity. Think of it as evicting freeloaders from your outlets.
17. Bundle Up the Water Heater
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Wrap your water heater in an insulating blanket to keep it from losing heat. It’s like giving it a winter coat so it doesn’t have to work so hard. More warmth, less energy wasted.
18. Maintain Your Heating System
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A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently. Change the filters and schedule a tune-up to ensure everything works smoothly. Think of it as a health checkup for your home’s warmth.
19. Be Mindful of Holiday Lights
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Twinkling lights are festive, but they can increase your energy bill. Opt for LED string lights and set a timer to control energy use. You’ll still have a merry display without the hefty cost.
20. Dry Your Clothes Indoor
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Skip the energy-hungry dryer and hang your clothes to dry inside. This will add moisture to the dry winter air and save electricity: two birds, one clothesline.