You asked for tips for saving energy during winter and our energy efficiency experts have the answers to the top six most asked questions. Making these simple changes around your home can reduce your energy use while keeping you and your family warm.
Should I insulate my attic?
It’s worth considering. As heat rises, it can leak out of your home if your attic isn’t well insulated. Ensure your attic is adequately insulated this winter to help keep warm air inside, saving you energy. If it is less than 10 to 13 inches (the equivalent of R-30), you probably need more.
Can ceiling fans help save energy during winter?
Yes. Setting ceiling fans to rotate clockwise helps pull cool air up and push warm air down into the room making the room feel warmer and allowing you to lower your thermostat.
What is the ideal thermostat setting?
Keep your thermostat at your lowest comfortable setting during winter months to save. You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by turning your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees higher than you normally would in warm months and 7 to 10 degrees lower in cold months for eight hours a day.
Do I need to change my air filters?
Change air filters regularly. A dirty air filter makes your heating system work harder, which uses more energy. Have your system inspected regularly to help it perform more efficiently.
Does using a humidifier help lower my energy costs?
Using a humidifier in the cold, dry winter helps put moisture back in the air, making it feel warmer, so you can set your thermostat at a lower temperature and still feel comfortable. Moisture to the air can help reduce cold and allergy symptoms like runny nose, dry throat and cough.
What are other ways I can save energy in the winter?
Open curtains and blinds on sunny days to help warm the home, and then close them in the evening to seal in the warm air and help insulate against cold nights.
Find more ways to save
- Your top 10 energy efficiency questions.
- Resources at Duke Energy’s Lower My Bill Toolkit.