We are finally feeling the cool winter months approaching in the Columbia area and many have already made the seasonal switch from cooling to heating their home. Take a look at these simple tips that can help you save on your energy bill.
- Install programmable thermostats, set them properly and keep the temperature at 68°F or lower.
- Open your drapes and blinds. Contrary to summer time, allowing direct sunlight into your home during the cold months is beneficial. Take advantage of the day time sunlight to warm the south side of your home. At night, close the drapes and blinds to create an extra barrier to prevent drafts.
- Check the doors and windows for wind and drafts which are more common during winter. There is no better time than now to close/caulk holes, seals and gaps around exterior doors and windows. Use a door threshold or sweep at the bottom to keep your heat from escaping. Make sure windows are locked and the outermost frame sealed from allowing cold air in.
- Unplug appliances, lights, TVs, computers, etc. when not in use.
- Check the air filters monthly; change when dirty or according to manufacturer guidelines.
- Keep HVAC vents and interior doors open to keep air flowing freely to and from the unit.
- Set your water heater to 120°F and visually inspect it periodically for leaks.
- Keep your garage door down.
- Run the washing machine with cold water. Also, consider line drying to save even more on your energy bill.
- Make a simple change in the laundry room by using ENERGY STAR appliances. For Rebates click here
- Upgrade your attic insulation to a minimum of R-38 (12-14 inches).
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent (CFLs) or light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy. ENERGY STAR qualified light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) are available for many household applications. LED bulbs can last for up to 22 years — 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs - and can save up to $50 in electricity costs over their lifetime. For LED Light Bulb Discounts click here *Energy cost savings are estimates only and may vary by usage and current rates.
- Have your central heating and cooling system professionally serviced annually.
*Information courtesy of South Carolina Electric & Gas