How to save money on your monthly energy bill as Colorado temperatures cool
PUEBLO, Colo. -- As temperatures cool across Colorado that could mean an increase in your monthly energy bill.
According to the press release, Black Hills Energy is informing its customers to consider making behavioral changes to reduce wasted energy and utilize weatherproof projects in order to save money.
“As we adjust our routines and prepare our homes for the changing seasons, we’re here to educate our customers on ways to save energy and start planning now for higher home heating bills during the cold months ahead,” said Vance Crocker, Black Hills Energy’s vice president of Colorado operations. “We want to encourage our customers to be energy aware by taking advantage of easy and affordable upgrades that conserve energy and reach out now to our customer service team to learn more about our assistance resources like Budget Billing and Black Hills Cares.”
Black Hills Energy wants to help its customers in managing their energy use.
Here are simple and easy tips to make sure you're saving money according to Black Hills Energy:
Weather-strip your windows and doors
Did you know as much as 7-12% of a building's heating and cooling loss occurs around windows and doors? Installing foam-backed tape around windows and doors is an easy and inexpensive way to keep chilly temperatures outside.
Seal cracks with chalk
Check the perimeters of windows, doors or where wood siding meets concrete foundation for signs of air leaks. Apply caulk to seal cracks and joints to keep drafts and moisture out of your home.
Plug up the holes around outlets
Hardware stores sell Styrofoam plugs to seal off energy loss around outlet plugs and light switches inside your home or business. Be sure to follow installation and safety recommendations.
Keep up with regular furnace maintenance
Your heating system, whether gas or electric, is probably your home's largest energy user in the winter. It can also be an energy waster if you don't use it wisely. Clean furnace filters each month, replace filters at least every three months
and have a professional check-up each year.
Install a programmable thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is an excellent way to reduce wasted energy overnight and while you’re out of the house. If health concerns aren’t a factor, set your thermostat to 68 degrees during winter months and reduce it by a couple of degrees while you’re sleeping.
Let the sun do the work
Open blinds on all south-facing windows to let the sun naturally heat your home during the day. Particularly for those spending more time at home these days, this prevents you from having to run the heat 24/7 and will save you from having to turn on additional lights.
Switch your light bulbs
Replace incandescent light bulbs with more efficient LED light bulbs, which use less energy and save money — especially since you’re likely home more often and have the lights on during the colder months of the year.
