Fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for colder weather. A few small upgrades and habits can keep you comfortable and reduce utility bills all winter long.
1. Adjust your thermostat
Dropping your thermostat by around 7–10°F for eight hours a day while you sleep or work can cut heating and cooling costs by about 10% a year. A programmable or smart thermostat automates these set‑backs and saves energy without effort.
2. Seal drafty leaks
Cracks around windows, doors and pipes let heated air escape. Sealing gaps with caulk, weatherstripping and foam gaskets keeps warm air in and cold air out.
3. Insulate windows and doors
Cover single‑pane windows with clear plastic film and hang insulated curtains. These simple barriers help trap heat and reduce drafts.
4. Maintain your heating system
Schedule a furnace tune‑up before winter and replace filters regularly. A clean, well‑maintained system runs more efficiently and uses less energy.
5. Lower water heating costs
Water heating accounts for a big chunk of utility bills. Reduce the temperature on your water heater to about 120°F, insulate hot‑water pipes and fix leaking faucets to avoid wasting energy and water.
6. Use smart power strips
Electronics draw power even when turned off. Plug computers, TVs and game consoles into a smart power strip and turn it off when the devices aren’t in use to eliminate phantom loads.
7. Swap out holiday lights for LEDs
LED string lights use far less power and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Switching to LEDs is an easy way to reduce holiday energy costs.
8. Let the sun heat your home
Open south‑facing curtains during sunny days to let natural heat in and close them at night to keep warmth from escaping.
Affiliate recommendations: Consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR–certified smart thermostat, picking up weather‑sealing kits, and choosing LED holiday lights. These small investments make a big difference in energy savings.
Affiliate disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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