When winter strikes, most of us seek comfort in the warmth of our homes. However, this warmth comes at a cost, and we often see a major spike in our utility bills during the colder months. With the upcoming winter in 2023 expected to be an especially hard one, it's important to take steps to make sure you're not breaking the bank just to stay warm. Fortunately, there are a variety of strategies you can use to save money and stay comfortable through the winter, including grants, federal/state/local programs, digital resources, and simple tips. Let's explore some of the best ways to save money on your utility bills this winter.
Do some research and find out what programs are available in your state and city. Many areas offer grants to help homeowners improve their insulation, HVAC, and seals, or other measures to reduce energy consumption. In fact, there are several federal programs offered through the Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program that provide funding to help low-income families make energy-saving improvements to their homes.
If you are considered low income, there are many programs designed to help you reduce your utility bills. Some states offer a Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to provide eligible households with assistance with energy bills, while others offer free weatherization services and free energy-efficient light bulbs.
Nowadays, there are many digital resources available to educate homeowners on energy conservation. The Energy Saver website is a great example; it provides information on ways to save energy and money on your utility bills. An ideal place to start is with your state's energy department website that often offers additional information specific to your region and the ways you can save money on your energy bill.
Making some small changes in your daily routine can add up to big savings. Consider lower your thermostat by a degree or two, dress comfortably for indoors instead of cranking up the heat, use an energy-efficient space heater to heat the areas you spend most of your time. Additionally, other simple habits such as turning off electronics and lights when you're not using them, taking shorter showers, and using full loads only while using your appliances (like washing machine and dishwasher) are some ways to save a few extra pennies on utility bills every month.
Don’t wait until your heater or boiler stops working to schedule a service--annual check-ups and regular maintenance help to ensure your home's heating equipment is running efficiently, and also helps save money on energy bills. Simply making sure your equipment is kept up-to-date, i.e. your air filters are regularly cleaned, your insulation is in good shape, and your thermostat is operating properly, will help ensure your heating system runs as efficiently as possible.
Getting ready for winter doesn’t have to be a stressful time. With the right information, you can start saving money today on your utility bills. Whether you're using grants, federal/state/local programs, digital resources, changing your daily habits, or maintaining your equipment, the important part is consistency. With a little bit of effort, you can save money over the long term, and minimize the impact of the cold winter weather on your bank account. So, make sure to take steps now and prepare for the coming winter season, and make the most of every tip and program available to reduce winter-related costs and save on utility bills.