It’s the most wonderful time of the year—we bundle up in layers of cozy sweaters and jackets, make more time for our loved ones, and see holiday lights glimmering on every corner. Although, some parts of “the happiest season of all” aren’t so happy, including the higher electric bills that come along with spending more time indoors.
What specifically contributes to these higher electric bills, you might ask?
- Your heater that’s running day and night
- The dishwasher working overtime after family dinners and holiday parties
- The game consoles and phone chargers that stay plugged in
- Your lengthy hot showers that you take to remember what warmth feels like
These are just some of the main culprits that culminate in a dreaded, rage-inducing electric bill only worthy of something as energy draining as a 24-hour, machine-operated light show (whatever that might look like). However, there is good news: there are plenty of ways to lower your electric bill in winter.
Lower Your Thermostat
It’s the simplest solution with the biggest impact—lower your thermostat! Aim to keep your apartment heated between 62 and 68 degrees for maximum savings and comfort. Take it one step further and invest in a programmable thermostat to take care of the fluctuations for you (it’ll lower the temperature when you’re not at home or asleep, and raise it again before you get home or wake up). Snuggle up with warm blankets and knit sweaters while you’re at home too.
Use Less Hot Water
Right after heating and cooling, your water heating usage is going to be one of the most impactful factors in determining the cost of your electric bill. Try reducing the time you spend showering and opting for lukewarm water instead of emerging, unburnt, as a mother of dragons from a scalding bath (saving your hot water is cooler than being a Targaryen—trust me). Also, be sure to only run the dishwasher when it’s full, and wash your clothes with cold water.
While you’re in the laundry room, clean the lint filter in the dryer before starting a new load (drying on low heat and using your washer and dryer less frequently will also save you money in the long run).
Use Efficient Appliances
Get lit with energy-efficient, LED light bulbs that help to keep your costs low. If any of your major appliances were manufactured before 1997, they’re likely not Energy Star certified, and could be contributing to those high electric bills as well. Contact your landlord or property manager to see if it’s possible to upgrade those old appliances.
Always unplug any of your holiday lights before you go to bed, and while you’re unplugging, check for any phantom electronics that are off but still draining energy—phone chargers, the printer, blender, and coffee maker as well as any game consoles. Pro tip: Use a power strip to turn off multiple items at once.
Make Some Quick Changes
Switch the settings on your ceiling fans to spin clockwise, pushing the heat down to keep you warm. Grab insulation sheets (don’t worry, they’re easy to remove) for any frosty windows and caulk any noticeable cracks so your heat can’t escape.
Conserving energy to save on your electric bill is as good a reason as any, but also think of how your new habits will leave your home warmer and drier (goodbye, mold growth) and benefit the environment overall. Making small changes won’t just benefit your wallet, but your health too! Go you!
