
Winter in New England is beautiful but undeniably harsh on both your home and your wallet. Heating your home during the frigid months can become a major expense if you're not prepared. Fortunately, with a few smart strategies, you can stay warm while keeping your electric bill or heating costs in check. Here are three effective ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort.
1. Optimize Your Home’s Insulation
Poor insulation is one of the leading causes of heat loss in homes, especially in older New England properties. Here’s how to maximize your insulation:
Seal Drafts: Use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards. A draft stopper under doors can also help keep the cold air out.
Upgrade Windows: If replacing old windows isn’t an option, apply plastic window film to improve insulation and reduce heat loss.
Insulate the Attic: Heat rises, and an under-insulated attic can cause major losses. Adding insulation to your attic is a cost-effective way to maintain warmth in your home.
2. Be Smart About Your Thermostat
A smart thermostat can make a world of difference in managing your heating costs. Here’s how to use it effectively:
Lower the Temperature at Night: Set the thermostat 7-10 degrees lower at night or when you're away from home. This can save up to 10% on annual heating costs.
Program Schedules: With a programmable or smart thermostat, you can schedule heating for when you’re home and awake, avoiding unnecessary heating during the day.
Zone Heating: Close off unused rooms and only heat the areas of your home that you use regularly.
3. Use Energy-Efficient Heating Practices
Adopting energy-efficient habits and technologies can significantly reduce your energy bills. Consider these tips:
Maintain Your Heating System: Ensure your furnace or boiler is serviced annually for peak efficiency. Change filters regularly to avoid overworking the system.
Leverage Natural Heat: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home, and close them at night to retain heat.
Supplement With Space Heaters: For smaller areas, use energy-efficient space heaters to avoid heating the entire home. Just remember to turn them off when not in use.
A Warmer Home Without the Higher Costs
By implementing these strategies, you can keep your heating costs under control while staying comfortable through New England’s coldest months. A well-insulated home, mindful thermostat use, and efficient heating practices can make a big difference in your winter energy expenses.
If you’re looking for more tips on maintaining your home or are considering buying or selling this winter, Century 21 Circa 72 is here to help. Contact us today to explore how we can assist you in navigating New England’s real estate market this season.
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