Conserve Electricity With Winter Energy Tips

It’s getting cold in the First State, and that means it’s time to switch up your energy-saving strategies to fit the season! This month, DEC is offering up some winter weather tips from the Department of Energy so you can save electric and money during the coldest months of the year. For starters, make sure to have routine maintenance done on your home’s heating system before cold weather begins. Next, try something simple — during the day, open the curtains on your south-facing windows to allow the natural heat of the sunlight to warm your home. Lower the temperature on your thermostat to the lowest setting that is comfortable for you and your family while you’re in the house. When you’re away from home, try lowering the temperature even more to save up to 10 percent per year on your electricity bill. Please note, heat pumps work best when the thermostat is at a constant temperature. If you notice cool drafts throughout your house, caulk and seal around windows and doors to ensure no cold air can get in, and no hot air can escape. For members with fireplaces, always keep the damper closed unless the fire is actively burning to prevent the heat in your home from rising up the chimney. We hope all our members can use these tips to help keep their homes warm and their electric bills affordable this holiday season! Visit delaware.coop for more ways to save!