10 Simple Ways to Save Energy and Stay Warm This Winter

As the winter weather is still here (remember, it's only March!!), many of us are looking for ways to keep our homes warm, and cozy, while also reducing our energy bills. Here are 10 simple and effective ways to save energy in the winter:

1. Seal Air Leaks: Check for air leaks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets, and use caulk, weather stripping, or foam sealant to close any gaps.

2. Insulate Your Home: Insulate your attic, walls, and floor to keep the warm air inside and prevent heat loss. (hot tip, see #5 below or visit your utility, they might cover your insulation for free!)

3. Use Curtains and Blinds: Keep curtains and blinds closed at night to reduce heat loss, and open them during the day to let in the sun's warmth.

4. Lower the Thermostat: Reduce your energy usage and lower your energy bills by setting your thermostat to 68°F when you're at home, and lower when you're away or sleeping. Sometimes just 1 degree can make all the difference!

5. Visit your Utility Site: Your utility is a great resource for many things, including ways to save, products and rebates that will keep you warm, safe, and energy-efficient, and a glimpse into the future of efficiency, and ways to save!

6. Install a Smart Thermostat: A smart thermostat can learn your heating and cooling habits and automatically adjust the temperature for maximum energy efficiency.

   1. Does your utility have a Marketplace? EFI's pioneering Utility Marketplace is one of the best places to take advantage of awesome savings on the best Smart Thermostats, like Google Nest, Emerson, Ecobee, and Honeywell.

7. Reverse your ceiling fan: As heat rises, you and your living area begin to lose that warmth, a reversed fan spinning slowly can help push the warm air down.

8. Dress Warmly: Wear warm clothing, including a sweater, pants, and slippers, to stay comfortable without having to turn up the heat.

9. Cook with the Oven: Cooking with the oven can add warmth to your home, and you can also bake a delicious treat while you're at it!

10. Use a Humidifier: A humidifier can help keep the air in your home moist and prevent dry skin and respiratory problems, which can make you feel colder even if the temperature is higher.

By following these simple tips, you can stay warm and save energy this winter. EFI is on a mission to ensure energy efficiency is accessible to all, and for the past 40+ years, we have brought millions of customers together with programs and products!