Temperatures have dropped and the Oklahoma wind is sweeping down the plains. Cotton Electric Cooperative offers a few tips for keeping your hard-earned money from blowing away on high energy bills.
One of the simplest ways to conserve energy use during winter months is to set your thermostat as low as is comfortable. Another is to manage the warmth offered by the sun, opening draperies and shades on south-facing windows during the day and closing them at night. Closing the damper on an unused fireplace will keep warm air indoors.
Space heaters and electric blankets should always be turned off when unattended. Going a step further and unplugging them and other appliances not in use can trim energy use by taking them out of a standby mode.
A low cost way to assist your heating system and increase its efficiency is to change air filters. Frequency depends on the household, but fresh filters should be a part of every cold weather home maintenance routine.
Air leaks will cause your heating system to work harder and longer, meaning higher energy bills. A rattling window or fluttering curtain can be indicators of problem areas. Locking a window will tighten the seal, as will a fresh application of caulk or weather stripping.
Exterior doors often allow wintry air into the home. Stopping a draft at the bottom of a door can be as simple as rolling up an old blanket. Some craft vendors and retail stores offer draft-stoppers that are whimsical or decorative. A more permanent solution is weather stripping, which will address leakage all around the door.
A larger investment can bring more savings in the long-term. Installing a programmable thermostat means the system will not work as hard to heat an empty home. A great deal of home heat is lost because of inadequate insulation in attics. Adding a few inches can go a long way toward lowering wintertime energy bills.
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