From weatherizing windows to using the right fan settings, these simple tips can reduce your electricity consumption and cut down on costs this winter without sacrificing comfort.

Take advantage of the Sun  

• Use the sun: Keep the blinds open on south facing windows during the day when it’s sunny and close blinds and curtains at night.  

Seal up drafty windows and doors 

• Check the weather stripping and seals around external doors.  

• Insulate your windows. Use window film to seal your windows, especially if they are older, during the winter months.  

• Use insulated drapes or shades. After weatherizing your windows, use window treatments to increase insulation.  

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Adjust the temperature and supplement heat  

• Turn down the heat at night and when you leave for long periods of time. Smart or programable thermostats can make it easy to set up a schedule.  

• Get cozy: Put on a few layers before turning up the heat. Embrace the cozy clothes and blankets. Better yet, use some electric blankets to keep you warm or “preheat” your bed at night.

• Use electric space heaters: If you need to heat a small, closed off area, an electric space heater can be an energy efficient choice to supplement heat. However, when heating an entire house, natural gas furnaces or heat pumps are more efficient.  

Keep the warm air moving and where you need it

• Close vents and doors in unused rooms, like guest rooms or storage rooms.  

• Keep the air circulating: Did you know most ceiling fans have a reverse switch to turn them clockwise? This creates an updraft that moves the warm air down into the rest of the room.  

• Check and insulate your ducts: If you have heating ducts, make sure there are no leaks to prevent heat loss. 

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Regularly maintain your heating system  

• Regular maintenance: Get your system tuned up before cold weather. Make sure to regularly clean and replace your filters. Set a reminder in your phone to help you stay on top of this.  

• Upgrade your system: If you need to replace your system, replace it with an energy efficient model, look for ENERGY STAR ratings. Heat pumps have also improved over the years and can heat at lower temperatures. Look for rebates and tax incentives that can help offset the cost of more energy efficient heat systems.   

Year-round energy efficiency 

• Upgrade to energy efficiency appliances: If you need new appliances, both big and small, make sure you are prioritizing energy efficiency when shopping.  

• Switch to LED bulbs: LED lights are much more efficient which can help with energy use all year round.  

Check with your local energy provider to see if they will help you increase energy efficiency. For instance, PECO offers a free energy checkup that helps PECO customers check their homes for ways to improve energy efficiency.  

Additional Resources:  

• Improve your home comfort with a Free Energy Checkup | PECO - An Exelon Company 
• Fall and Winter Energy-Saving Tips | Department of Energy 

Header image credit: Albertfotofilms