5 Ways to Lower Winter Utility Costs

The winter season is upon us and though North Carolina does not get as cold as some states, we can expect to have the furnace running at some time during the next few months. If you are a tenant who is required to pay your own utilities, what can you do to lower winter utility costs? This article will provide some helpful hints.

Hint #1: Stop Drafts

There are few things that make a room feel uncomfortably cold than drafts. When the furnace kicks in and air starts to circulate, it can form a suction that draw in the cold air from outside. Even a small leak can drive your furnace to run longer and hotter making your utility bills higher.

Seal the Windows

Windows are by far the biggest sources of air leaks. Check if your windows leak by hanging light shear curtains on the window when the breeze is blowing hard outside. If they are moving, your windows are leaking. A cheap effective solution is to install self-stick rubber weather seals along the window frame. If you do not plan to open the window for a few months, purchase a window insulation kit. It will come with double-sided sticky tape that is mounted to the frame and then a plastic shrink film that attaches to the tape. When finished, take a hair dryer to it and you will not even be able to see that it is there… until you get your lower utility bill.

Seal the Doors

An easy way to stop drafts from sneaking in under the door is to install a draft snake. Draft snakes are fabric tubes placed up against the door to prevent drafts. You can also insulate the door by using the same self-adhesive weather-stripping you used on the windows.

Hint #2: Keep Some Rooms Cooler

Hot air rises but often it rises into areas where we prefer it to be cooler such as in our bedrooms. If you like your bedroom cooler, then consider keeping the door closed during the day. This also goes for rooms that are used infrequently. If your rental has a staircase, consider hanging floor-length drapes at the foot of the stairs to keep most of the hot air from rising up the staircase and causing a draft in the living area.

Hint #3: Turn Down the Thermostat

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if you turn down your thermostat 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day, you can save up to 15 percent off your heating bill. If everyone empties the house during the day to go to work or school, turn down the thermostat when you leave. You can also throw on another blanket and turn down the heat at night. You will really feel the pleasant difference when you get your next heating bill.

Hint #4: Let in the Sun

The radiant heat from the sun is available no matter how cold it is outside. Benefit from this free heat source by opening up the curtains on south-facing windows during the day.

Hint #5: Stop the Drip

When we want to lower winter utility bills, we tend to focus on heating and cooling costs. Have you considered ways to reduce your water bill? A drippy faucet can really add up over time. Just set a dish pan in the sink and go to work. When you come home, you may be surprised to see how much water has been sneaking down the drain. Recycle those drips when you wash up after dinner. From time to time you may notice that your toilet seems to be running more than normal. A quick fix is to open the storage tank and clean underneath the rubber flapper to improve the seal.

These inexpensive and easy do-it-yourself fixes to lower winter utility costs are sure to save you money each and every month. If, however, you notice that there are inordinate leaks coming from the windows or doors or you are unable to stop that persistent drip, please call either the property management company or your landlord. We want to make your stay in our rentals comfortable and safe.