San Diego generally experiences milder winters than the rest of the country. With cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, the demand for heating is generally lower compared to the cooling needs in the warmer months. But if you really want to save a few more bucks, here are some tips to chill out on energy bills this winter.
How to Save Energy During the Winter
Keeping warm
- Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed. Insulate your water heater and pipes to prevent heat loss.
- Open curtains during the day to let in sunlight, which can naturally warm your home and close them at night to retain the heat.
- If you have a fireplace, make sure the damper is closed when it’s not in use to prevent warm air from escaping.
Adjust the temperature
- The recommended thermostat setting for homes during the winter in San Diego typically falls between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20-21 degrees Celsius) when you’re at home and active.
- When you’re sleeping or away, consider lowering the thermostat to around 60-62 degrees Fahrenheit (15-16 degrees Celsius). Individual preferences may vary, and it’s essential to choose a temperature that keeps you comfortable.
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat allows you to automate temperature adjustments based on your daily schedule, optimizing energy usage.
Appliance use
- Unplug chargers, electronics, and appliances when not in use to avoid phantom energy usage.
- Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED or CFL bulbs.
- Use task lighting and turn off lights in unoccupied rooms.
- Set ceiling fans to run in a clockwise direction at a low speed to circulate warm air.
Your lifestyle
- Dress warmly indoors and use layered clothing to stay comfortable without relying heavily on heating.
- Use lids on pots to cook food more quickly.
- Consider cooking multiple items in the oven at once to save energy.
- Take shorter showers and use warm rather than hot water when possible.
- Get everyone at home involved! Encourage family members to be mindful of energy usage and adopt energy-saving habits.
The folks at Save on Energy created this infographic showing estimated amount you can save per year.
Image from Save on Energy
Hope these tips help! Got any power saving tips? Share with us in the comments!
