As the vibrant colors of fall start to settle in, temperatures cool down, and our energy needs begin to shift. While summer energy savings might have focused on keeping your home cool, fall presents its own opportunities to cut back on energy use while staying cozy. Here are five easy ways you can save energy at home this fall:
1. Maximize Natural Light
With shorter days and cooler weather, it’s tempting to turn on the lights earlier and keep them on longer. Instead, take advantage of natural daylight by opening your curtains or blinds during the day to let sunlight warm your home naturally. You’ll reduce the need for electric lighting and heating, keeping your home brighter and warmer at no extra cost.
2. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors
As temperatures drop, drafts can make your home feel chillier, prompting you to crank up the heat. One of the most effective and affordable ways to save energy is by sealing drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulking to block cool air from seeping in and warm air from escaping. This simple fix can lower your heating costs significantly.
3. Adjust Your Thermostat
During fall, it’s smart to adjust your thermostat settings to align with the changing weather. Try lowering the temperature a few degrees, especially at night or when you’re away from home. For every degree you lower your thermostat, you can save up to 1% on your energy bill. Better yet, install a programmable or smart thermostat to make these adjustments automatic and even more efficient.
4. Service Your HVAC System
Before the cold fully sets in, make sure your heating system is running at peak efficiency. Scheduling an HVAC tune-up ensures that your furnace or heat pump operates smoothly and consumes less energy. Change your air filters regularly, as dirty filters force your system to work harder, using more energy and driving up your utility bill.
5. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting
With the fall season comes earlier sunsets and longer nights, meaning you’ll rely on artificial lighting more. Consider switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last significantly longer. Installing dimmer switches can also allow you to control the brightness and save even more energy.
By making these simple adjustments, you can enjoy the beauty of fall while keeping your energy bills in check. Ready to explore more ways to save energy this season? Contact Amerigy Energy today for a free consultation on the best energy-saving tips and electricity plans for your home! 877-631-8875
This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across East Texas.
