Have you noticed your energy bill creeping up over the past few months? St. Louis winters can be tough on the wallet, especially if you live in an older home with poor insulation or aging appliances. Luckily, there are several things you can do to help save energy and lower utility bills during cold weather. Read on for five great tips on how to reduce your winter electric bill.

How to Save on Your Winter Electric Bill

Use the following tips to help step up your winter energy savings.

• Install a smart thermostat. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% on your heating bill by turning your thermostat down 7–10° for 8 hours per day. With a smart thermostat like the Nest Learning Thermostat, you can save even more.
• Switch your home to LED! According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “By replacing your home’s five most frequently used light fixtures or bulbs with models that have earned the ENERGY STAR, you can save $75 each year.” By switching every light bulb in the entire house, you could save much more. Learn more about switching your home to LED.
• Power down and unplug. This one’s pretty straightforward. Unplug things when you’re not using them and turn things off before you leave the house. Home automation is a fantastic option if you have trouble remembering these simple tasks.
• Upgrade to energy efficient appliances and electronics. Click here to search for ENERGY STAR certified products. Or contact us for recommendations on the best energy efficient electronics.
• Seal out the cold. Winterize your home with proper insulation and well-sealed doors and windows. If your home heating runs on an electric furnace, this will go a long way in cutting down your winter electric bill.

Want more info on summer energy savings? Check out our previous post for 5 Easy Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill in the Summer.

Additional Energy Saving Tips to Keep in Mind for Next Year

The holidays have come and gone, but there’s always next year! When you’re putting up decorative holiday lights, remember to use LEDs and incorporate low-output fixtures into your lighting scheme. And when shopping for Christmas gifts, consider the gift of home automation or brand new energy efficient electronics—such as an ENERGY STAR certified UHD smart TV.

Have questions about how to lower your winter electric bill? Ready to switch your home or business to LED? Contact us for a free consultation. Call our office at 314-266-6551 or email info@paramountstl.com.