In the colder winter months, energy bills can skyrocket. Check out these tips and ideas from the Family Services Department.
- Take advantage of heat from the sun: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home and close them at night to reduce cold window chill.
- Cover drafty windows.
- Adjust the temperature: Most experts recommend you set your thermostat at 68-72°F when you’re home and 60-65°F when you’re asleep or away.
- Find and seal leaks or drafts around windows and doors.
- Maintain your heating systems: Clean or replace filters in your furnace, air conditioner, and heat pump.
- Lower water-heating costs: Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 120°F, take short showers, and wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
- Use energy-efficient lighting, and air-dry clothes.
- Bundle up inside.