Making Your Home Energy Efficient for the Winter Months

December 3, 2018 | No Comments

Fall is here, and winter is just around the corner, which means it is getting dark earlier and the weather will be getting colder. This time of year means that people will keep lights on longer and start using their heaters more. Plus, with all the holidays coming up, people will be decorating their houses with lighting displays. So, how can someone make their home or plan their custom home to be more energy efficient, and perhaps save themselves some money?

Use the Sun and Turn Down the Thermostat

Having curtains open during the day to let in natural light can help to heat rooms. Turning down the thermostat a few degrees during daytime hours when no one is home will help lower electricity and gas bills. A programmable thermostat can do this automatically. Doing these things together will help to heat a house with less energy, thereby saving on electricity and gas bills.

Fix Leaks and Drafts

Seal up any areas where cold outside air can make its way into the house, or warm inside air inside can escape. Places to check include fireplaces, windows, doors, and any walls that are poorly insulated. Closing up these leaks can help lower utility costs, and the house will stay much warmer with less effort.

Use Energy-Efficient Appliances and Lighting

Another way to save on utility bills and make a home more energy efficient is to have high-efficiency versions of appliances such as washers, dryers, and tankless water heaters installed. The water temperature on the water heater should be lowered to the “warm” setting instead of the “hot” setting. And, when putting up holiday lights, opt for LEDs because they are more energy efficient and will help to lower electricity bills through the holiday season.

Unplug

Phantom energy stealers are devices that are on all the time even though you think they are off. Televisions and computers are prime examples. Set these devices to energy saving mode. Your TV will take a few more seconds to turn on, but you will be saving energy. Have devices plugged in only when necessary. In the case of lights, place them on on a timers to reduce the load on the wiring as well.

Get Heating Systems Serviced

A heating system that has been recently serviced will be more energy efficient. Small malfunctions can cause the system to waste energy when running or even expedite a breakdown. Get an annual tune-up to keep the system running smoothly. Many companies service HVAC systems, so make an appointment before the winter season hits.

Following these tips will help to keep any house running smoothly during the fall and winter months and will make sure that it is more energy efficient.

For information on building an energy efficient custom home contact Grayson Homes at 919-578-6222.