4 Ways to Lower Your Winter Electric Bill

The temperature is dropping, so your thermostat is rising. That means your energy bill could also be rising. Here are some tips to stay cozy while keeping a little extra money in your pocket!

1.  Energy efficient light bulbs can help you save energy costs.Keep your house cooler while you’re away from home. Lower the temperature when you know you’re going to be out of the house for extended periods of time—work, running errands, visiting the family for Thanksgiving or the holidays. Heating the house can make up about half of your electric bill. The ideal temperature is about 68 degrees.

2.  Make sure there aren’t any door jambs or cracks that could allow cold air to enter your home. That’s like throwing money out the window!

3.  Routine maintenance. If your heating system is well maintained, it will run more efficiently. While a routine check-up of your system can cost you a little more now, it can save you 3 to 10% on your bill. And don’t forget to change those furnace filters.

4.  Switch to energy efficient light bulbs. Each bulb you replace with a lower wattage can help save you money. Switching from 150-watt bulbs to 75-watt bulbs will cut electricity used in half.

Have a favorite energy saving tip? Share it in the comments section. I’d love to hear your ideas!

Marti Reeder, Realtor, Managing Broker