13 Creepy Good Energy Savings
October is here, bringing cooler temperatures, cozy nights, and just the right amount of spooky season fun. While you’re decorating pumpkins, planning costumes, and enjoying all things fall, it’s also a great time to scare away unnecessary energy use around your home.
Here are a few simple ways to creep into good energy-saving habits this October.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. In cooler months, switch your fan to clockwise rotation at low speed. This helps push warm air that rises toward the ceiling back down into the room, making your space feel more comfortable without immediately turning up the heat.
Let the Sunshine In
Cooler mornings don’t always mean you need to reach for the thermostat. Open curtains and blinds on sunny windows during the day to let natural warmth into your home. Once the sun goes down, close them again to help keep that warmth inside.
Clear Leaves Away from Outdoor Equipment
Fallen leaves may look festive, but they can pile up around outdoor HVAC equipment. Keep leaves, twigs, and other debris cleared away so air can move freely around the unit and your system can operate properly.
Give Your Thermostat a Fall Check
As temperatures start to drop, take a look at your thermostat settings. Lowering the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home can help reduce energy use. A programmable or smart thermostat can make those adjustments even easier.
Check Your Fireplace Before Cozy Season
Before lighting the first fire of the season, make sure your fireplace and chimney are ready to go. And when the fireplace isn’t in use, keep the damper closed so warm indoor air doesn’t escape up the chimney.
Stop Drafts from Sneaking In
Cold air has a way of creeping through small gaps around windows and doors. Check for drafts and use weatherstripping or caulk where needed. Sealing those small openings can help keep your home more comfortable and prevent heated air from escaping.
Give Your Water Heater a Little Attention
As the weather cools, hot showers become more appealing. Check your water heater temperature and look for signs of heat loss around the tank or exposed hot-water pipes. Insulating pipes where appropriate can help reduce wasted heat.
Don’t Let Phantom Energy Haunt Your Home
Some electronics continue using electricity even when they’re turned off. Chargers, gaming systems, televisions, and other devices can quietly draw power while plugged in. Unplug electronics you aren’t using or connect several devices to a power strip that can be switched off at once.
Make the Most of Your Oven
Fall usually means more baking, casseroles, and comfort food. When possible, cook multiple dishes at once and avoid opening the oven door repeatedly, which lets heat escape. Once you’re finished cooking, that leftover warmth can also help make the kitchen feel extra cozy.
Give Your HVAC System Some TLC
Your heating and cooling system works hard throughout the year. Replacing or cleaning your HVAC filter regularly can help your system operate more efficiently. October is also a good time to make sure furniture, rugs, or other household items don’t block vents.
Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting
With daylight hours getting shorter, you may be turning on the lights a little earlier each evening. ENERGY STAR® certified LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
And if your Halloween decorations include glowing pumpkins, string lights, or a spooky front-yard display, consider using LED decorations and timers so they aren’t running all night.
Cozy Up Before Turning Up the Heat
Before raising the thermostat, grab a sweater, warm socks, or your favorite blanket. Small changes can help you stay comfortable without immediately asking your heating system to do more work.
Keep Good Energy Habits Going All Season
Saving energy doesn’t have to be scary. A few small changes around your home can help reduce unnecessary energy use while keeping things comfortable as cooler weather arrives.
