How you can reduce your electric bill this winter

Winter is in full swing and homeowners are often shocked by their increased electric bills. Many of us use a good deal more electricity in our homes during the frigid winter months, which can be quite costly if we’re not paying attention. From excessive use of the heating system to leaving lights on longer than necessary, there are several elements that add to higher electric in the winter.

We want to share with you some helpful tips to help you reduce your electric bill this winter.

• Turn down your thermostat setting when you are away from home – Many of us work and are out of the home during the day. Turning down your thermostat settings when you are away from home is one surefire way to reduce electric costs. Installing a programmable thermostat, or even a smart thermostat, will allow you to set a working schedule rather than having the heat run all day long. A programmable thermostat will afford you the confidence of a home that is heated and comfortable upon your return while minimizing electric costs at the same time. In addition, when you travel for business or are away on vacation during the winter months, make certain to set your thermostat at a practical temperature, typically between 60 and 65 degrees, which will avoid pipes from freezing and keep the home comfortable without increasing electric costs during your absence.

• Turn off lights when not in use – During the winter months when it gets dark earlier in the day, it can become somewhat of a bad habit to leave lights on throughout the day and night. Because of the shorter daylight hours, people tend to leave their lights on much longer or even forget to turn them off altogether. Whenever you leave a room in the house, make certain to turn the lights off. This simple yet practical act can save you quite a bit of money.

• Adjust the blinds, drapes or shutters in your home accordingly – To conserve energy and save money get into the habit of closing your blinds, drapes or shutters at night and opening them during the daytime. This efficient task will allow the sun’s heat to enter your living space during the daytime resulting in a warmer atmosphere at night. Engaging in this simple practice will help keep your home at a consistent perfect temperature while reducing the workload of your furnace or heating system. Further, engaging in this daily practice will again conserve energy and contribute to your ability to reduce your electric bill. Whether your home is designed with plantation shutters, heavy blinds or lined drapes, opening them in the daytime and closing at night time is a good procedure to practice. Furthermore, be certain to adjust your window treatments in all the rooms in your house and not just your primary living space.

These important tips will certainly help you to reduce your electric bill during the winter months while still maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. Take time out now to put these useful steps in place and don’t forget, if you need of any type of electrical services, we are the team for you. Don’t delay. Contact us today!! Gervais Electric, Inc. – your ‘go to’ company for all your Middle Tennessee electrical needs.