Staying Warm through Rising Energy Costs

Staying Warm and Rising Energy Costs

Winters in Northern California can be unpredictable, sunny, and mild for one week, then cold and snowy the next. For many households, those temperature fluctuations can quickly lead to higher heating costs, especially in older homes. The good news is that staying warm does not have to mean higher energy bills. With a few simple, practical changes, you can keep your home more comfortable and energy efficient during the winter months.

Evaluate Your Home’s Building Envelope. 

Seal the Gaps – If your home feels drafty, frigid air may be sneaking in through cracks in doors, windows, and baseboards. A little weatherstripping or caulking is a simple, low-cost way to keep heat in. 

Boost Your Insulation – What you don’t see matters. Heat often escapes through attics, walls, and floors. Proper insulation helps lock in warmth and can lower energy bills year-round. If your home is older or under-insulated, upgrading your insulation can make a noticeable difference. 

Window Coverings Matter – Open curtains during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your space. Close window coverings at night to hold in heat. Insulated curtains are especially helpful for large or single-pane windows. 

Heat Smarter – Programmable and Smart Thermostats can help you manage your temperatures when you are asleep or away from home. Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and adjust accordingly to help you save energy without sacrificing comfort. 

Use Energy Wisely – Grab a blanket and snuggle up. Using an extra blanket or wearing warm layers indoors allows you to keep the thermostat lower. Closing off unused rooms helps concentrate warm air where you spend time.

Replace Furnace Filters Regularly – A clean furnace is a happy furnace. A clogged or dirty furnace filter forces your heating system to work harder. For homes with forced-air heating, replacing your filter every one to three months, or cleaning wall heater vents, can improve efficiency, comfort, and safety.

Check Your Appliances – Old appliances can be energy drains. Consider upgrading to Energy Star appliances and take advantage of energy-efficiency rebates. 

Have you thought about an Induction Stovetop? – Freezing weather and home-cooked meals go hand in hand. If you are spending more time in the kitchen this winter, an induction stovetop might be worth considering. Induction cooking heats the pan directly and can be a safer, more energy-efficient option for many households.

Is Your Home in Need of an Investment Upgrade?

Efficient Heating Systems – If your HVAC (Heating/Cooling) system is aging, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency electric Heat Pump HVAC system. Heat pump HVAC systems are significantly more efficient, moving heat from one place to another, rather than generating it, often delivering 2-4 times the heat energy compared to resistance heating.

Heat Pump Water Heaters (HPWH) are another extremely efficient appliance, heating water by moving heat from the surrounding air into a storage tank, rather than creating heat from scratch, thought to use 70% less energy.

While these are considered investment-grade improvements, there are multiple programs that offer hefty rebates to offset the cost of equipment and installation. There are also financing programs available, such as Go Green Financing, that offer lower-interest loans. 

Give and receive; it is the season – Take advantage of the free Northern Rural Energy Network (NREN) program services. Reach out to us directly for assistance navigating our or NREN programs: info@northernREN.org