Energy saving efforts don’t just make sense, they make dollars and cents. While that’s not exactly a newsflash for most homeowners, it’s high time to get ‘er done with winter fast approaching.
Below are just a few winter energy saving tips that vary in cost and effort from ‘a big fat zero’ to ‘not very much’.
Zero Dollars, Perfect Sense
We love us some free, money-saving energy tips! Here are just a few:
- Take advantage of the free smart thermostat, P.G.E and NV Energy offers.
- In the meantime, turn your thermostat down 10-15 degrees for eight hours a day when you’re not home or sleeping. This can save 10% on your heating bill annually according to energy.gov.
- Close vents in the rooms you seldom use like a guest room. (But be sure to open them before your holiday guests arrive!)
- Say yes to the free energy assessment NV Energy offers.
- Invite the sunshine in by raising shades and opening curtains. A little solar gain means a little saving on your heating bill.
- Spin your fan clockwise. Ceiling fans will force hot air down in the cooler months. (Conversely, counterclockwise rotation in the hotter months will force the warm air up and away from you.)
- Keep the damper in your fireplace closed when not in use. Otherwise, the warm air will go right up the chimney. (We’re not heating the whole neighborhood, right Dad?)
- Bundle up! Your favorite sweatshirt or a cushy throw blanket could be just what the heat seeker ordered. Add layers before — or instead of —adjusting your thermostat.
- Check out our G.E and NV Energy programs designed to reduce energy costs for low-income families if you know someone who might qualify.
Little Cost, Little Effort
Looking for more winter energy saving hacks? We’ve got your back!
- Batten down the hatches! From caulking windows to adding door snakes, there are many ways to draft-proof your home.
- Make sure your insulation measures up. Not sure what to look for? Read this.
- Make your desert home a little less desert-y by adding a humidifier. Moist air feels warmer than dry air and it holds heat better. Oh yeah, and there are other health benefits,
- Lights! Action! Any season is the right time to change your incandescent light bulbs to more energy efficient bulbs. Because of the initial expense, we recommend changing out a few at a time.
- Joy to the electric bill! When you change your holiday lights to LEDs, you can save. They use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional holiday lights (according to S. News & World Report).
One Last Tip & Some Jokes
Want a home of your own to save energy in? Here’s another money-saving tip: Check out our Stanford Mortgages First Time homebuyer program that offers thousands in bonus money to use for a down payment or closing costs. If you’re buying, it’s a no brainer.