As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, it’s a great time to make sure your home is comfortable.

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Not only can small changes in your energy habits and a few home upgrades help keep you warm, but they can also reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on your electric bill.

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Here are some of the best eco-friendly practices to consider this season:

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1. Switch to LED Holiday Lights

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While holiday lights can bring warmth and cheer to your home, they can also use a lot of energy.
 

Whether you’re hanging lights on your tree, front porch, or throughout the house, switching to LED lights will make your home merry and bright without weighing down your utility bill. 

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Not only do LED holiday lights consume up to 90 percent less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs, but they’re also more durable — lasting up to 10 times longer — and don’t generate as much heat, making them safer for indoor use and holiday displays. They also come in a wide variety of colors and styles to fit any kind of decor.

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2. Cover Your Windows

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Heat can easily escape through your windows, making it more difficult (and costly) to keep your home warm and comfortable. 

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On sunny days, open your curtains to let in natural warmth and light, then close them at night to trap heat inside.

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Consider using Insulated window treatments like thermal curtains or cellular shades to prevent drafts and reduce heat loss. These treatments add an extra layer of protection against the cold, helping your heater work less. 

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For an extra eco-friendly layer, you can also apply window film or weather stripping. Window film is economical and adds an insulating layer to the glass, helping to keep cold air out and warm air in, and making your home feel cozier while reducing energy usage.

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3. Adjust Your Thermostat

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Setting your thermostat a few degrees lower when you’re at work or when you’re sleeping can significantly cut down on your heating costs. 

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If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, you can set it to automatically lower the temperature when you’re not home and raise it before you return, creating a comfortable space while using less energy. 

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Consider setting your thermostat to 68°F while you’re home and bump it up a bit when you’re away. A small adjustment like this can make a big difference in electric bill over the colder months without sacrificing your comfort.

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4. Compost Your Leaves

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Instead of hauling off your leaves after raking your yard, use them to lower your heating costs.

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After you rake, shred your leaves and mix them with green waste. Turn them regularly until they are decomposed, then spread a thick layer of the rich leaf compost around the foundation of your home. 

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This layer of compost will provide a natural insulation barrier, protecting your foundation from freezing and cracking, reducing heat loss through the ground, and conserving energy.   

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5. Unplug Your Appliances and Electronics When Traveling

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Many household appliances and electronics like microwaves, coffee makers, televisions, computers, and gaming consoles consume “phantom power” when they’re turned off but still plugged in. Phone, tablet, and laptop chargers also continue to draw power when they’re plugged in but not charging devices.

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Taking a few moments to unplug these items before you travel — or when you simply aren’t using them — will conserve energy and help lower your utility bill. 

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Doing so can also help you avoid fire risks due to power surges or malfunctions. This is especially important for appliances with heating elements, like space heaters or toasters. 

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Interested in exploring how GreenTech can apply similar energy saving principles and materials into your next build? Contact us today.

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