Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Control your energy costs no matter what winter brings

Wisconsin  winters can be brutal. That’s why we’re sharing these no- and low-cost tips to help you manage your energy costs all season long — no matter how low those wind chills may get.



No cost

Dial it down: Lower your thermostat when you’re asleep or away. Even a few degrees can make a big difference. 

Let the sunshine in: Open your shades, blinds and drapes during the day to let in the warmth of the sun. Close them at night to keep the warm air in.

Check your water heater: If it’s set higher than 120 degrees F, you’re likely using more energy than you need to wash your hands, clean dishes and wash your clothes. 

Put your ceiling fan to work: Run your ceiling fan clockwise at the lowest speed. This moves the warmer air trapped near the ceiling down and around the room. 


Low cost

Cover drafty windows: Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Make sure the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame.

Seal cracks and gaps: Don’t let cold air creep in through poorly sealed windows or doors. Use caulk or weatherstripping to stay comfortable.

Replace your furnace filter: Dirty filters reduce airflow and make your furnace use more energy. Replace it monthly during the heating season, or buy a high-efficiency filter than can last several months.

Focus on Energy: Check out our partners at Focus on Energy for instant discounts on energy-efficient products like LED bulbs, smart thermostats and power strips. You may even qualify for a free energy-saving kit!

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