utilities_power_pole.jpgSometimes it’s the simple things that ruin our budgets. We may notice we’re cold but aren’t proactive enough to help weed out the source of drafts or poor energy efficiency that results in large bills in the winter. Instead, we’re more likely to blame the utility company. In the summer, we are too hot to think about ways to reduce our energy needs and just seek some relief from the bright summer sun. However, paying attention to your utilities, month to month, and season to season, can help you develop strategies to lower your costs and increase your comfort. Here are some strategies to implement year-round, in the winter, and in the summer to help you get the most from your utilities and reduce your costs.

Year-Round or Between Seasons

Know the age of your systems and how to maintain them. If you have filters that need replacing, replace them.
If you have windows that need caulking, do it. This can save you money by keeping cool air in during the summer and cold air out during the winter.
Check the seals on your storm doors and inspect the weather-stripping. Replace, if necessary.
Dress for the weather. If it’s cold outside, dress warmly inside. Keep blankets and warm slippers available.
Make sure your attic and basement are properly insulated. If possible, check before buying a home and then make sure that the old owners correct any poor insulation.
Look into utility plans that charge you an estimated bill to equalize all your payments year-round, with no unexpected sharp increases.
Get your home energy audited by your local utility company.
Replace aging furnaces or air conditioners, especially if buying newer higher-efficiency models save you more money in the long run than repairing them.
Replace older windows with newer more energy-efficient or double-glazed windows.
Move somewhere with a temperate climate.

For Winter

If you have a drafty house, invest in seasonal plastic window insulation kits. They may look ugly, but they work great.
If you have hardwood or tile floors, invest in some throw rugs.
Close off any rooms in the house you don’t use and shut the vents, redirecting this air to other areas you do use.
Try using natural materials like down feather comforters and wool blankets.
Use space heaters in the room you use as a living room.
Use 3-month air filters so you don’t forget to keep them clean month-to-month.
Run ceiling fans backwards to pull warm air down from the ceiling.
Eat nourishing comfort foods to keep your body warm.
Exercise indoors to generate body heat.

For Summer

Use ceiling fans or portable fans to cool down.
Open the windows, but keep your screens in.
Make sure your air conditioning unit is properly serviced.
Spend your days outside in an air-conditioned building like the library and open the windows at night to bring in cool air.
Stay hydrated and drink cold drinks.
Eat less so that you don’t generate as much body heat.

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