Posted on Dec. 15th, 2015
We all love winter with the holidays and snow activities like skiing. This season can also bring a lot of discomfort for people due to the cold. We can make it comfortable in modern times due to heating technologies, but this comes at a cost of a higher energy bill in the winter months. Here’s how you can reduce your energy bill during the winter months in Boston.
Energy Audit
You need to get a professional energy audit done. This audit will check to see how energy efficient your home actually is. Your energy habits will be examined and improvements will be suggested for you. This can help you save money in the long run.
Open Curtains in the Day
You can add more heat to the home by opening your curtains in the day. The winter afternoon sun will come into the home and add some warmth to it. Once the sun goes down just close the drapes so you keep heat in the home.
Window Insulation
You can also insulate your windows with heavier drapes. You can put a tight plastic film around the window frame to lock out drafts and keep heat in the home. You may also want to create a wooden window insert with plastic over it which you can place in the window and just remove this when needed. The extra frame and plastic will help lock in heat.
Seal the Leaks
Another thing that you can do is to use weather stripping or caulking around windows and doors to seal leaks in the home. Look for areas where there are pipes and cables and ensure there are no drafts. A good energy audit can help you locate these problem areas in the home.
Lower Thermostat
Try to lower your thermostat to a temperature that is comfortable to you. You can wear a sweater or warmer clothing inside if it’s a bit cool. You’ll save a lot of you can avoid using the heat all the time. When you go out for the day, turn the heat off.
Maintain the Heating System
Ensure your heating system is clean as a poorly operating heating system will cost you money. A good heating specialist can come to your home and ensure that everything is clean and operating well. When you don’t use the fireplace and install glass doors.
LED Lights
LED Lights can help you save money too as they don’t run hot like normal lights do, yet are still colorful for the holiday season.
Maintain the Hot Water Tank
You want to have the hot water tank looked at periodically as it can develop problems which can reduce the efficiency of the tank. You may want to wrap it with insulation for the winter months.
Other ideas
Here are a few other ideas you may want to try:
• More insulation
• Unblock heating vents
• Have coils on refrigerator cleaned
• Keep sprinkler system clean
• Get a new roof before the winter
• Have a programmable thermostat or Wi-Fi thermostat
• Buy Energy Star products
• Unplug appliances when not using them
• Use florescent bulbs
When buying a new home in Boston look for these features as you’ll save a lot of money when you buy. If you own your own home in Boston these are prudent measures you can take to save money.