With a few smart steps, you can get your home ready for winter and manage your usage and energy bills.
Understand what impacts your winter energy bill
- You turn up the heat to stay warm when it’s cold outside. Regardless of your fuel source, your furnace needs electricity to help keep you warm. You may also use electric space heaters, which use a lot of energy and increase your monthly bill.
- Big drops in temp make your furnace work harder even when you’re asleep.
- Colder weather and shorter days mean you’re spending more time indoors and using more energy.
Easy ways to save on your energy bill
- Seal air leaks around your doors and windows – simple steps like caulking, or using low-cost, clear plastic window sheeting is an effective way to keep warm air in and cold air out.
- Replace your furnace filter before winter hits to keep your system running efficiently.
- Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule— you can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs by simply turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day from its normal setting.
- See if you’re eligible for rebates. Seal in comfort and save up to 10% on annual energy costs. Get up to $400 in rebates when installing energy efficient insulation. Learn more at dteenergy.com/insulation.
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Use energy efficient lights. In these darker, colder months, switching to LED lighting can help manage your energy use and your bill. Find options with instant rebates at dtemarketplace.com/collections/lighting.
Need help paying your bill? Contact us as soon as possible so we can connect you with the help you need before winter hits. Visit dteenergy.com/help for more information.