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Full Width Hero - Hot Tips
It’s getting cold outside. And when temperatures go down, energy usage often goes up, and so can your energy bills.
Fortunately, by making a few small adjustments, you can keep your home cozy and warm, manage your usage -- and save money. Trying one or more of these energy-saving tips can really pay off.
Small steps, big savings
Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat makes it even easier to save money and energy at home. Take it from our friend Grahm. You may even be eligible for a programmable thermostat rebate.
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Simple ways to save, right now
Start right here
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- Soak up the sun: Open curtains on your south-facing windows during the day and let the sunlight heat your home. Then, close them at night to reduce the incoming cold from any drafty windows.
- Cover drafty windows: Install insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty to prevent cold air from seeping in around the seals.
- Adjust the temperature: On average, for every $100 you spend, you can save $10 on your energy bill when you set your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day.
- Find and seal leaks: Seal up any areas where air is coming in. More often than not, these leaky areas can be found around pipes that connect to the outside, chimneys, recessed lights in insulated ceilings and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. We also recommend using caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.
- Maintain your heating system: Replace your furnace filter once a month or as needed. Have your furnace serviced once a year to help keep your system operating efficiently.
- Let hot air flow: Always keep clutter away from registers, heaters and radiators.
- Keep cold air outside: Place a fabric seal at the bottom of doorways and windows.
- Expert tip: In a pinch, roll up a towel and place that under your doorway.
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More ways to save
When warming your home...
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- Stay cozy by insulating and sealing outer walls, ceilings, windows, doors and floors.
- Let hot air flow freely by keeping clutter away from registers, heaters and radiators.
- Avoid the fall rush by having your furnace inspected in late summer or early fall.
- Keep cold air out by closing your fireplace damper when it’s not in use.
- Manage your home’s energy use even when you’re away with a programmable thermostat.
- Bonus tip: Find rebates for this energy-saving device by visiting our rebates and offers section.
When heating your water...
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- Save on water-heating costs by taking showers instead of baths.
- Conserve hot water by pre-rinsing dishes and clothes in cold water.
- Boil water faster by covering your pot.
- Heat water more efficiently with a water heater that’s the right size for your home.
- Use less water by only doing full loads of dishes and laundry.
When preparing your meals...
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- Prevent energy waste by never cooking with a flame that exceeds a pan’s width.
- Give your gas range a break and preheat the oven only when necessary.
- Cook vegetables faster by cooking them in a small amount of water.
- Maintain a consistent oven temperature by keeping the door closed. Each time it’s opened, it loses 20 percent of its heat.
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