When outside temperatures begin to drop, one of the most costly consequences is the increased energy it takes to maintain a comfortable home temperature. Though it may be tempting to simply lower the temperature on a thermostat, there are several ways to lower your utility bill while staying warm and cozy. With forecasters predicting higher than average utility bills for this coming winter, now is a great time to consider how you can save on your energy costs.

Consider These Tips to Reduce Winter Utility Bills:

• Look for and seal any areas where heat may escape from your home, especially around windows and doors.
• Use a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you are away from home.
• Check the temperature setting of your water heater and insulate it to prevent heat loss.
• Ensure that your vents and radiators are not blocked. This will allow warm air to circulate through your home freely.
• Open window curtains and blinds during the day to let the sunlight warm your home, and close them at night to keep the heat from escaping.
• Check your furnace filter and replace it if dirty.
• Have all HVAC systems inspected by a professional before winter, and repair any leaky ductwork.
• Shut the doors and close the vents to rooms that you are not using. Doing so will allow you to heat the rooms that are in use more efficiently.

Consider Other Sources of Energy Waste

There are other small ways that you can consume energy, not just on your winter utilities bills. Consider these ideas for reducing costs year-round:

• Take shorter showers.
• Fix leaky faucets.
• Use energy-efficient LEDs instead of incandescent light bulbs.
• Unplug electronics when they are not in use.

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