From Guest Blogger Lizzie Weakly: How Keep Your Home Energy Efficient During the Cold Winter Months

If you live in a cold area, there is a good chance you expect higher utility bills every time winter arrives. However, keeping warm does not have to be accompanied by higher energy costs. There are a number of simple and inexpensive steps that you can take to keep your home energy efficient, effectively helping you to save both energy and money. The good news is that you can achieve this without compromising the comfort and convenience you are used to.
Use the Sun to Your Advantage

If you are keen on lowering your energy costs during winter, you should consider making the most of free heat from the sun. This means opening your curtains during the day so as to allow sunlight into your home. At night, shutting the curtains will provide an additional layer of insulation, a factor that will keep the rooms warm.

Lock Your Doors and Windows

When you lock your doors and windows, you will prevent the cold outside from infiltrating your home. Doing this during the cold months of winter will not only make you comfortable but also lower your heating bill. Visiting websites like RWC Windows, Doors & More will give you a chance to learn more about the types of windows and doors that will improve the efficiency of your home.

Maximize Your Insulation

A considerable amount of heat is lost through the roof. This is why you should consider insulating your home as a way of making the structure more energy efficient. Proper insulation will prevent heat from escaping, a factor that will reduce heating costs. The first step to insulating your home should be weather stripping for both your windows and doors.

Adjust the Temperature

Installing and using a programmable thermostat will allow you to adjust temperature settings depending on your use of the heating system. Whenever you are not at home or are sleeping, you can turn down temperature in an effort to save energy. You can also set the thermostat at a comfortable temperature when you are home and awake.

Lower Your Lighting and Water Heating Costs

In order to reduce the amount of energy you consume during winter, you should lower the temperature of the water heater. LED lighting will also help you to cut down on energy costs.

This list is by no means exhaustive. There are many more actions that you can take to ensure that your home is energy efficient. These include investing in solar and keeping all your internal doors closed.