Sequachee
Valley Electric Cooperative
Lower winter temperatures mean higher utility bills for many Tennessee Valley residents. Fortunately, there are some short-term energy efficiency measures that can be implemented quickly to help lower home energy costs.
The most effective thing consumers can do to lower winter energy costs is to simply lower the thermostat. We recommend thermostats be set at 68 degrees or the lowest possible setting to maintain comfort. Heating costs will increase about three percent for each degree the thermostat is raised above 68.
The next most effective way to cut energy bills is to lower water heater temperature to 120 degrees. A water heating setting of 120 degrees will meet the hot water needs of almost any household, from running the dishwasher to bathing and doing the laundry. You can save further by taking shorter showers and using cold water for laundry whenever possible.
Heating and water heating account for more than half of all home energy use in the Tennessee Valley, so making even modest efforts to improve energy efficiency in these two areas can make a significant difference in home energy bills.
The trick to keeping a home comfortable at a lower temperature is to make sure that the home is as tight as possible. Air leaks around doors and windows, light switches and electric outlets on outside walls, and gaps and crevices around pipes and electrical wires can make a house feel cold and make any heating system work overtime trying to maintain comfort.
Caulking, weatherstripping, and insulation can work wonders in almost any home. The home feels more comfortable and is easier to heat because less heat is being lost to the outside.
Another way to make less heat feel like more is to use ceiling fans, with the control in the reverse position, to help move warm, heated air near the ceiling down into the living area. Some people also benefit from running a humidifier during the winter months to add moisture to the air, which makes the surrounding air feel warmer -- much like how higher humidity adds to the heat index in summer.
And finally, there’s nothing that feels warmer or is easier to do than to simply put on a favorite sweater or an extra layer of clothing. You’ll be more comfortable with both the temperature and your home’s utility bill.
For more tips on how to lower home energy costs including our free home energy survey call your local SVEC office or click here and then on "Profile" to complete the survey online You’ll also find money-saving ideas for your home, including the “Top 10 No Cost Steps You Can Do Right Now,” at www.tva.com.