As a college student, managing your budget can be tricky, especially when it comes to paying bills. One of the biggest monthly expenses that many people face is the cost of electricity, and while it might not be the first thing you think about in winter, heating your space can actually use quite a bit of energy. At the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC), students are no strangers to cold winters, and while you're not using your air conditioning in the colder months, there are still ways to save on your electricity bill by managing your heating system and energy usage effectively.
If you’re living off-campus, chances are you're paying for your own utilities, and the cost of heating your apartment can add up quickly. But don’t worry—there are several ways to save electricity and lower your heating costs while staying warm during the harsh Wisconsin winter. Here are some simple and effective tips to keep your heating system running efficiently without breaking the bank:
1. Set Your Thermostat Lower
During winter, it can be tempting to crank up the heat to stay cozy, but setting your thermostat too high can waste a lot of energy. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F when you're home and awake and lowering it while you're asleep or away. For every degree you lower your thermostat, you can save up to 1% on your heating bill, so even a small adjustment can make a difference.
If you find it uncomfortable to lower the temperature at night, you can always use extra blankets to stay warm without turning the heat up too much.
2. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a smart investment for saving energy in the winter. These thermostats let you set specific temperatures for different times of the day, which helps ensure that your heating system only runs when you need it. For example, you can program the heat to turn on right before you get up in the morning and turn off when you're heading to class or going to bed. Many programmable thermostats can be controlled via your phone, allowing you to adjust the temperature remotely if you're coming home earlier or later than expected.
By not heating an empty apartment, you can reduce your energy consumption and keep your bills lower.
3. Use Space Heaters Wisely
If you spend a lot of time in one room, like when you're studying or relaxing, using a space heater can be more energy-efficient than heating your entire apartment. However, it’s important to use space heaters safely and only in rooms where you’re spending a lot of time. Make sure to turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed, as leaving them running can waste electricity.
Also, make sure to choose a space heater that is energy-efficient. Some models are designed to heat up a small area without using a lot of electricity, so look for these types of heaters to get the most out of your space heater.
4. Seal Leaks and Insulate Your Space
One of the biggest ways that heat can escape from your apartment is through gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and walls. If your space isn’t sealed properly, your heating system will have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, which leads to higher energy bills. Before the cold weather sets in, check for drafts around your windows and doors and seal any leaks with weatherstripping or caulk. You can also use draft stoppers at the bottom of doors to keep the cold air out.
If your apartment or house has an attic or basement, check the insulation. Proper insulation keeps warm air inside and helps prevent the cold from seeping in. This can make a big difference in how much energy your heating system uses.
5. Use Curtains and Blinds
Natural sunlight is your friend during the winter. During the day, open your curtains and blinds to let in sunlight, which can help naturally warm up your space. As soon as the sun goes down, close your curtains to help trap the heat inside and prevent the cold from creeping in through your windows. Thick, insulated curtains are great for adding an extra layer of warmth.
If you have windows that are poorly insulated or older, consider investing in thermal curtains that are designed to keep the cold out and the warmth in.
6. Maintain Your Heating System Regularly
Just like your AC unit in the summer, your heating system needs regular maintenance to run efficiently. If you have a furnace, make sure to change the air filter regularly (usually once a month during the winter). A clogged filter forces the furnace to work harder, using more energy to heat your space. Clean the vents and ensure that there are no obstructions to airflow.
If you’re using a space heater, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning and maintenance. Keeping your heating system in good working order will prevent it from using more electricity than necessary and extend its lifespan.
7. Wear Layers and Bundle Up
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to stay warm in winter is to dress warmly! Instead of turning up the heat, try wearing layers, especially when you're indoors. A warm sweater, socks, and a blanket can go a long way in keeping you comfortable without needing to raise the temperature. This is especially useful during the night when you’re under blankets—lowering the thermostat while you sleep can save energy and money.
8. Cook and Bake During the Day
If you're using your oven to cook or bake, try to do it during the day when the sun is shining. The heat from your oven will naturally warm up your apartment, and you won’t have to rely as much on your heating system. This can be a great way to combine getting a meal ready with saving energy, plus it’s a good excuse to bake some cookies!
Be mindful not to leave the oven door open after you’re done cooking, though, as it can be a fire hazard.
9. Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
In winter, we often rely on lights more than usual because the days are shorter. Traditional incandescent light bulbs use more electricity and give off more heat than energy-efficient LED bulbs. By switching to LED bulbs, you not only reduce your electricity usage, but you also reduce the amount of heat being produced, which can help your heating system work more efficiently.
LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last much longer, making them a great investment for your budget.
Disclaimer
Hey there! Thanks for reading our stuff. We want you to know a few important things:
We're General Property Management LLC, right here in good old Eau Claire, WI. You can make an appointment to visit us. Our office is located at 703 5th Avenue #1, Eau Claire, WI 54703 or send written correspondence to General Property Management, LLC, P.O. Box 283, Eau Claire, WI 54702.
If you need to reach us, our email is contact@ec4rent.com and our phone number is 715-832-1200.
We try our best to give you good information, but we're not lawyers. If you have a serious legal problem, it's best to talk to a real attorney.
If you spot any mistakes in what we've written, please let us know! We'd love to fix it or take it down if needed.
We always welcome your comments and thoughts. Your feedback helps us do better!
Remember, when we all do our little part, the world is a better place.
