Cozy Up to Savings with Energy Efficiency Tips
Winter is here, but that doesn’t mean your energy efficiency has to hibernate. We’re here to help keep you comfy and eco-friendly all season long. Turn up the savings and keep the warmth where it belongs — inside— with these tips:
Slippers Are Nice, Insulation Is Better
Cold floors and icicles on the roof could mean you need more insulation. Make sure your home has enough — you could save hundreds of dollars a year. If you need some more insulation in the basement or attic, takeCHARGE rebates can cover 75%* of your insulation costs.
Show Your Heat Pump Some Love
Clean the filters regularly and keep the outdoor unit clear of snow. Looking for more information on how to maintain your mini-split? Check out our helpful video, here.
Say Hello Sun
The sun still shines in winter, so open your curtains to let it heat your home! Close them at night to keep the heat in. You could save 10% on heating costs.
Drafts Are a Drag
Air sealing your home saves you energy and money and keeps you cozy when outdoor temperatures drop. Draft-proof your doors, windows, outlets, and anywhere there may be heat loss. You can get back up to $500* with a takeCHARGE rebate.
Use LEDs
Nights are longer in winter. Use ENERGY STAR® LED light bulbs to save energy and money. They use at least 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
Save with Smaller Appliances
Winter is hot chocolate season. Use an electric kettle for those warm drinks —it uses less energy than a stovetop one.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Water heating accounts for up to 90% of the energy your washer uses. A drying rack is also a great opportunity to skip running the dryer when a clothesline isn’t an option.
Set Back the Temperature
Lowering your home’s temperature by just a few degrees can save you energy and money. Install programmable thermostats in the main living areas of your home, and turn down the heat when you’re asleep or away. You can also turn down the heat in rooms you don’t use often and keep the doors closed.
Holiday Energy Efficiency Tips
Deck the halls with smart energy choices.
These holiday tips will help you enjoy a warm, bright, and efficient season without compromising on the festive fun:
Get Smart
When using electronics, use a smart power strip to turn them off completely. Some electronics still use energy even in standby mode.
Cook Up Holiday Savings
Food will cook faster and require less energy when you keep lids on pots. It’s also more efficient to use the oven light to check on a dish, rather than opening the oven door, and use the right-sized pots on stove burners when cooking holiday dinners. When it comes to those yummy holiday leftovers, use a microwave to reheat a plate of food to avoid using the extra energy required of an oven.
Skip Dish Duty
Use a dishwasher — it uses less hot water than washing by hand. And only turn it on when it’s full.
Remember to Have a Time
Putting your holiday lights on a timer will save energy and money. You can also upgrade your tree by making sure it has LED lights and is plugged into a smart power strip.
Follow the Star
If you’re buying electronics as gifts, make sure they are ENERGY STAR®.
Get Offline
Unplug and enjoy activities like playing in the snow.