Winter energy saving tips

Susan S. Kaplan

Marketing & Outreach Coordinator, Department of Energy Resources

View Susan's Complete Bio

During long winter months, it’s tempting to keep the heat on high 24/7 and hibernate. But energy efficiency is about the choices we make each day, and, over the next several weeks, we’ll be tweeting about how to save energy and cut energy costs with tips that will keep you warm and lower your energy usage. Follow our Energy Smarts Twitter feed at @maenergysmarts for tips on how to save energy and money this winter. Here are some of our recommendations.

1. Don't forget to close the damper on your fireplace. Your chimney functions as a large open window that draws warm air out of the room and creates a draft.

2. Replace your heater's air filter monthly. Your heating system will work less hard, use less energy and last longer as a result.

3. For holiday lights, use an automatic timer both indoors and out to avoid accidentally leaving them on.

4. Make sure all heating vents are opened and unblocked by furniture or other items. This will ensure that the air is evenly distributed through the home.

5. Change your light bulbs to ENERGY STAR® efficient ones and save enough energy to light seven million homes.

6. Wear warm clothing like a sweater and set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during the day and evening.

7. Set your water heater to the normal setting or 120-degrees Fahrenheit, unless the owner’s manual for your dishwasher requires a higher setting.

8. Caulk leaks around windows and doors.

 

Comments

[HVAC contractor Dallas]

Thank you so much for sharing all these tips of yours. Yes, we are also trying to reduce our energy consumption especially during summer and winter. I have taught my kids on being more responsible with their actions like disconnecting appliances or putting off light that are not in use. So far, we have had lower electricity bills compared to the past years. Now, with these tips, I am sure that we will have an even enjoyable winter season ahead of us.

[C-Mech]

These are fantastic tips.
Air tight seals save so much energy, including energy saving doors. Not only do they save energy, they cut down on cost, and are an essential purchase for someone who's looking to upgrade their home for a more energy conscious living space.

[Drew]

Susan great tips, another good one would be to unplug anything thats not being used, because even if its not on it still can use power.