When temperatures drop, energy use often rises. Holiday lights, extra cooking, and heat loss from drafty windows can all add to your bill. These simple, practical tips can help you stay comfortable and save energy all winter long.
Choose Efficient Holiday Lighting
LED holiday lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent strands—and they produce less heat, making them a safer option for your home.
Layer Up Before You Turn Up the Heat
Before adjusting your thermostat, try adding a sweater or extra blanket. A small change in clothing can help you stay warm without increasing your energy use.
Maintain Your Heating System
Clean or replace furnace filters regularly. A clogged filter forces equipment to work harder and use more energy. Annual servicing of your heating system can also help maintain peak efficiency.
Turn Off Lights When You Leave
Switch off lights in unoccupied rooms. For even greater savings, consider installing occupancy sensors that automatically turn lights off when no one is around.
Seal Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps. Reducing drafts helps your home retain heat and lowers the demand on your heating system.
Cook Smarter During the Holidays
Use smaller appliances, such as toaster ovens, slow cookers or microwaves, when possible. If you’re using the oven, cook multiple dishes at once and avoid opening the door frequently, which lets heat escape.
Let the Sun Work for You
On sunny winter days, open curtains to allow natural heat into your home. Close them at night to help keep the warmth in and reduce chills from cold windows.
Cover Drafty Windows
Apply a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet to window frames or use a clear plastic film kit. Ensure the seal is tight to prevent heat loss.
Winter Water Conservation Tips
Cold weather can strain plumbing systems and lead to unnecessary water waste. These simple steps can help you save water and protect your pipes during the winter months.
Protect Your Pipes
Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, and basements, to reduce the risk of freezing and bursting.
Fix Leaks Early
Even small leaks can worsen in cold weather. Check faucets, toilets, and outdoor spigots and repair leaks as soon as possible to avoid water loss and potential damage.
Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Remove garden hoses and install insulated covers on outdoor faucets. This helps prevent pipe damage and reduces the chance of leaks later.
Use Appliances Efficiently
Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads. This saves both water and energy during a high-use time of year.
Shorten Showers
A few minutes less in the shower can save gallons of hot water—helping you conserve energy and reduce your winter utility bill.
Know How to Shut Off Your Water
If a pipe bursts, turning off your main water supply quickly can prevent major water loss and damage. Make sure everyone in your home knows where the shutoff valve is located.