We’ve hit the middle of Fall, Fanfare fans! With the cooler, milder temperatures setting in, now’s the perfect time to bring down your energy bill and still stay comfortable. As the air conditioning gets a break, here are some easy seasonal tips to help you save even more without sacrificing comfort—or style!
1. Make the Most of Natural Light
As the days get shorter, the sun’s light is still strong enough to light up your home. Open those curtains and let the daylight pour in! It’ll give you natural warmth and brighten up your space, so you can hold off on using lamps and overhead lights during the day. Just be sure to close them in the evening to keep the warmth in.
Bonus Tip: Dust off lightbulbs and fixtures. Even a thin layer of dust can dim the light and make you want to use more. Keep things shining bright with a quick clean!
2. Swap Your Ceiling Fan Direction
Did you know your ceiling fan should spin clockwise in cooler weather? Set it to the lowest speed and switch to clockwise rotation to gently push the warm air that rises back down, helping your room feel cozier without cranking up the heater.
3. Give Your HVAC System a Breather
As you ease off the air conditioner, fall is a great time to check your HVAC system. Swap out your air filter for a new one—it’s an easy, inexpensive task that can improve efficiency. Also, if you’re due for an HVAC tune-up, now’s the time. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your system running smoothly and avoiding costly breakdowns.
4. Unplug Those Energy Vampires
Chargers, gaming consoles, and appliances still draw electricity when they’re plugged in, even if they’re not in use. Go around the house and unplug items that don’t need to stay connected. Or, use a smart power strip to make it easier. It’s an easy way to avoid “phantom” energy costs.
5. Dress for the Season
Instead of immediately turning up the thermostat, layer up! A cozy sweater or blanket can help keep you warm, and as a result, you’ll rely less on the heater. This can make a noticeable difference in your energy costs—and hey, it’s sweater weather anyway, right?
6. Adjust Your Thermostat When You’re Out
With temperatures outside at a mild high, consider turning down your thermostat a few degrees when you leave the house. Lowering it just 5-10 degrees while you’re away can lead to big savings over time. And if you have a programmable or smart thermostat, it’s even easier to set it to fit your schedule.
7. Run Appliances in Off-Peak Hours
Doing dishes or laundry? Shift these activities to early morning or late evening when electricity rates are often lower. It’s a small change that can add up, especially if you run full loads and use the energy-efficient settings on your machines.
8. Seal Up Drafts
Take a few minutes to check your windows, doors, and any vents for drafts. A little caulking or weather stripping can make a big difference in keeping warm air in and cold air out. This means your heating system won’t have to work as hard, helping you save even more.
9. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature
Did you know water heating can account for about 18% of your energy bill? Lowering your water heater temperature to around 120°F is plenty warm for showers, dishes, and laundry, and it’ll help you save on energy costs this season.
These quick, easy changes can really add up over the season to give you more savings on your electricity bill while keeping your home cozy and comfortable. For even more energy-saving tips and offers, stay tuned here on the Fanfare blog. Here’s to a fall full of comfort—and savings!