Winter is HERE, but you can stay Energy Efficient!

Temps are DROPPING, but there are some easy ways to keep your home comfy and cozy WITHOUT breaking the bank! Check out these simple steps to help keep your budget intact:

1. Take it down a notch - Setting your thermostat between 68-70 degrees can save you money! When you're away from home or sleeping, you can set it a few degrees lower for savings. Smart thermostats are an efficient way to schedule and monitor your temperature settings. Lastly, space heaters are a great option for heating small areas of your home. 

2. Let Mother Nature lend a hand - Even if your home isn't solar equipped, natural light can benefit you! When the sun is shining, open up blinds/curtains to allow natural heat from the sun. In turn, at night close them to help insulate and keep heat in. Setting ceiling fans on low in a clockwise rotation will prevent drafts and pull the cool air upward allowing the warmer air to circulate in the home.

3. Mind your electronics - If your appliances have a power-save mode, take advantage to help reduce your energy consumption! Make it a point to turn off any devices when you are not actually using them and make sure to unplug electronics completely if you will be aware for a while.

4. Lighten up - Turn off lights when you aren't in the room and replace current lightbulbs with those that save energy like LED or CFL.

5. Tighten up - Air leaks are a huge part of heat loss in most homes! Check windows and doors for any visible gaps that would allow your heat to escape. A little caulk and weatherstripping can greatly improve your efficiency. Area rugs on bare floors are a great way to help insulate. If you have a fireplace, make sure the dampers are closed when you aren't using them to prevent heat loss.

Even if your temperatures are downright freezing, these tips will hopefully help you save on energy throughout the winter months and keep your wallet a little fuller.