by Shawn Crowle
Winter is fast approaching, and with the drop in temperatures often comes a rise in your utility bills. Luckily, there are ways to cut down on both your electricity and natural gas usage while staying warm and comfortable. Here are some small, practical changes that can help you prepare for winter and save on your utility bills.
Seal Up and Insulate Your Home
One of the most efficient ways to save energy during the. winter months is by making sure your home is well-insulated and sealed. Drafts around doors, windows, and vents can allow col air to enter, forcing your furnace to work even harder. Take a quick check for any gaps or cracks where you might feel a draft and seal them with weather stripping or caulking. By keeping the warm air inside where it belongs, you’ll rely less on your heating system and reduce your natural gas usage.
Optimize Your Thermostat
Setting your thermostat just a couple of degrees lower while you’re away or asleep can make a crucial difference and lead to significant savings on your utility bills. A smart thermostat will allow you to automate temperature adjustments based on your schedule, so you’re not heating an empty house or making it too warm to sleep when you’re wrapped up in your bed.
Make Use of Natural Light
While we definitely don’t see as much daylight during Alberta’s winter months, the sunlight we do get can still be an effective way to warm and light your home during the day. Open your curtains or blinds to let the sun in – especially on south-facing windows. Then, at night, close the curtains to help insulate against the cold. This simple habit can reduce the amount of energy needed to both light and heat your home, cutting costs to your electricity and natural gas bills.
Tune Up Your Furnace
Your furnace works hard in the winter and having it professionally serviced before the cold sets in helps ensure that it is working smoothing and efficiently, and burning less natural gas. A clean furnace filter can also improve airflow and the efficiency of your entire heating system.
Layer Up and Embrace Cozy Living
One of the simplest (and coziest) energy-saving tips is to layer up! Wearing warm clothing inside, using blankets, and enjoying cozy evenings with hot drinks can help you stay warm and comfortable even at slightly lower temperatures. This approach reduces the need for blasting the heat and is an easy and practical way to save on natural gas usage during our long Alberta winter.
By making small adjustments and preparing your home now, you can reduce your energy consumption and save on your utility bills this winter.
