Cold weather brings chilly days and sparkling snow, and for Michigan residents, the change of seasons also comes with high winter utility bills. Because Michigan’s home energy rates are well above the national average, many people see a dramatic spike in heating costs from December through March. While you can’t control utility prices, you can do plenty of things at home to save energy and lower your power bills.
How to Lower Your Electric Bill in the Winter
Use these winter energy-saving tips to keep your costs in check.
Maintain Your Furnace and HVAC System
During October or November, perform routine maintenance on your heating system. Replace air filters, clean the vents and ensure your thermostat is working. Open all the air vents in your house to allow the furnace to circulate air.
When possible, schedule a furnace inspection and tune-up in the fall. The technician checks for issues and suggests repairs that could help the system use energy efficiently. It’s an easy way to save money and extend the life of your equipment.
Find and Seal Drafts
Drafts let warm air out and cold air in. Your furnace works harder to compensate, wasting fuel and contributing to high winter utility bills.
To prevent heat loss, spend some time sealing drafts.
- Install weatherstripping or foam tape on drafty doors and window sashes.
- Use caulk to seal drafts around window and door frames.
- Caulk leaks around plumbing, ducts and vents.
- Use door sweeps or draft stoppers at the bottom of exterior doors.
- Cover windows with insulation film.
- Hang insulated curtains on your windows.
- Install foam gaskets behind outlet covers.
- Put insulated covers over outdoor faucets.
Program Your Thermostat
Set your smart thermostat to lower the temperature at night and when you’re not home. Reducing the temperature by just 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 8 hours a day can reduce your energy costs by up to 10%.
The right setting depends on your comfort level. To start, try setting the thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re at home and 60 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re sleeping or at work. To save even more, try setting the thermostat to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use Layers and Heated Blankets
If you’re not completely comfortable with a lower thermostat setting, consider dressing in layers when you’re at home. Wearing insulated slippers and thick sweatshirts is a great way to stay warm.
While you’re working from home, reading or watching TV, consider using a heated blanket to help you keep warm. It uses energy, but not nearly as much as you’d use by turning up the thermostat.
Schedule an Energy Audit to Limit High Winter Utility Bills
If your bills are still high, it may be time to consider hiring a professional. Contact your utility company to learn how to schedule an energy audit. A professional auditor can inspect your home using specialized tools to find inefficiencies that could be causing the problem.
High winter utility bills can eat into your household budget, especially in states with steep energy rates. That’s why it’s so helpful to learn how to lower your power bill in the winter. With a few DIY fixes, you can increase energy efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint and save money in the process.
