Winter is just around the corner, which means our energy usage will start to skyrocket once the temperature outside begins to drop. Many homeowners today are adapting more eco-friendly home practices, but the winter makes saving energy difficult as we try to heat our homes to a comfortable temperature.
Without sacrificing a warm house on the cold days of winter, there are ways we can save energy this time of year. From weatherstripping the windows and doors to using the sun as a natural energy resource, follow our 8 tips for the best ways to save energy this winter.
Seal Leaks
Prevent heat loss by searching for any air leaks that might exist around the house. Not only do windows and doors often leak air, check your vents, plumbing and any area within the home that can be sealed. The energy used to heat air that will escape the home is a waste of both money and energy.
Weatherstrip
Before the winter comes, weatherstripping the doors and windows is a must. Any damaged or missing weatherstripping from the year before should be replaced to prevent drafty doors and windows when the temperatures plummet.
Use the Sun
Use the natural resource of sunlight during the day to your advantage. Keep those curtains and blinds wide open during the daytime to let in as much sunlight as possible. It won’t serve as a replacement to heat the home, but it will supplement the heat, resulting in some energy savings.
Insulate the Attic
Since warm air rises, the warm air in your home during the winter could travel to the attic and through the roof if it isn’t properly insulated. Not only does this waste energy, but it also causes roof issues that can be expensive to fix.
Smart Technology
Investing in smart technology like smart thermostats can save energy during the winter. The smart thermostat will adjust to save energy where needed, for example adjusting to lower temperatures when your family is away or asleep at night.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are an investment, but they will pay for itself over the years by using the sun as a natural, renewable energy resource. Generating electricity from the sun to heat your home in the winter months also reduces our reliance on harmful fossil fuels.
Circulate Air
Keeping the air circulating can save energy in the winter. Instead of running your fan on its normal setting, run it in reverse to retain heat in the home. The fan will push the warm air that naturally flows upwards back down.
LED Christmas Lights
Who else has struggled with one Christmas light burning out, only to take the whole string of lights out with it? With LED lights, this won’t happen. Did you know LED lights are 90% more efficient than traditional lights? While we’re listing the benefits of LED lights, it’s important to note these lights are much safer than their traditional counterparts.
Center Island Contracting is your local Long Island contractor of choice for home remodels on the north shore of Nassau county in towns like Oyster Bay, Manhasset, Plainview, Jericho, etc. Our qualified professional new home construction management team is here to help you renovate the home of your dreams. With the knowledge about local and New York State laws, our staff can answer all your questions and streamline the entire process. Email us or call (516) 481-4707.
