As the seasons change, so do your bills. However, finding new ways to save can be tricky when you’re already super savvy. By creating a good savings foundation during the fall and winter, you will be able to start 2018 in a healthy financial state. That’s why Security State Bank has compiled a list of tips and tricks to prepare your home for the seasons to come in order to save some cash!
Install energy-efficient windows
A low-emissivity glass, also known as Low-E glass, helps block the rays of the sun up to 90 percent, and keeps the heat inside when it’s cold. ENERGY STAR estimates those who replace a single-pane window with an energy-efficient model will save $126-$465 annually. Now multiply that by the number of windows you replace and you’re looking at quite the savings.
Lower water heating temperature
If you lower your water heating temperature, you will save as much as 22 percent yearly on your bill. Instead of allowing the water to get scalding hot, you can set it to only become warm, which will increase your savings every time you shower, wash your hands, or do dishes.
Adjust the temperature
By turning back your thermostat by 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day, you can save up to 10 percent annually on heating and cooling bills. Each time you raise your heat by one degree, your heating bill increases 3 percent, so it’s important to avoid that mistake.
Weather stripping
Thirty to 40 percent of your heating costs are lost to air leaks, according to ENERGY STAR. That’s why it’s important to find where drafts are coming from to cover the leaks with weather stripping materials, which start off at around $5.
Replace light fixtures
If you replace your home’s five most frequently-used light fixture bulbs with energy efficient ones, you can save $75 a year. Imagine if you did that with more bulbs!
Fix leaking faucets
If you fix a leaky faucet, you will save $35 and 1,661 gallons of water, if it’s dripping at a rate of one drip per second. Little things like a leaky faucets end up having a big impact on your bills over time, so be sure to check your nozzles.
We hope these home hacks will help you save this fall, winter, and hopefully the seasons to come! Contact Security State Bank if you have questions about what else you can do in order to grow your savings.