00:0010 Things That Are Spiking Your Utility Bills This Winter
00:03Inefficient Space Heater Usage
00:06Many people grab a portable heater to warm up a chilly room, thinking they are saving money by keeping the central heat low.
00:14However, running a 1,500 watt space heater for just 8 hours a day can add around $60 to your monthly electric bill.
00:23Neglected Air Filters
00:24A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your HVAC system to run longer and work harder just to push warm air into your home.
00:34This extra strain not only wears out your equipment faster, but it also significantly increases your daily energy consumption.
00:42Drafty Windows and Doors
00:43You might not see the cold air sneaking in, but your heating system definitely feels it and works overtime to compensate.
00:51Department of Energy reports indicate that heat loss through windows and doors can account for 25% to 30% of a home's total heating bill.
01:01The Open Fireplace Damper
01:03A crackling fire is the definition of winter comfort, but that chimney can turn into a massive energy liability the moment the flames die down.
01:12Leaving the damper open when the fireplace is not in use is equivalent to leaving a window wide open 24 hours a day.
01:20Industry experts warn that an open damper can increase your heating costs by up to 30% as warm air rises and escapes.
01:29Phantom Energy Vampires
01:31Many electronics draw power even when turned off, accounting for roughly 10% of household electricity use.
01:38Using a smart power strip or unplugging, rarely used devices can instantly cut this unnecessary drain and lower your bill.
01:46Overheated Water Tanks
01:48Most water heaters are set hotter than necessary at 140 degrees, wasting energy through constant heat loss.
01:55Lowering the temperature to 120 degrees can cut water heating costs by 4% to 22%.
02:02Outdated Thermostat Habits
02:05Keeping a constant thermostat wastes energy.
02:09Lowering it 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day can cut heating costs by up to 10% annually.
02:16Poorly Insulated Attics
02:17It lets heat escape through the roof, forcing your heater to work harder.
02:22Adding insulation helps trap warmth and quickly lowers heating costs.
02:27Blocked Heating Vents
02:28It is common to rearrange furniture for the holidays or to maximize space, but placing a couch or rug over a vent is a major mistake.
02:37Your furnace has to work much harder to distribute heat when its primary delivery routes are obstructed by heavy furniture.
02:45Ignoring Ceiling Fans
02:46Most people associate ceiling fans with summer cooling, but they are surprisingly useful tools for winter heating efficiency as well.
02:55Heat rises and pools near the ceiling, leaving the floor, and you feeling chilly while the warmest air sits uselessly overhead.
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