Our Expert Reveals 6 Things People Need To Do Immediately After New Year’s Eve To Save On Energy Bills
After the bright lights and happiness of the festive season, energy bills can feel like a bad holiday hangover that sticks around for way too long. A lot of households face a financial struggle in the aftermath of holiday spending, especially with constantly rising energy bills.
“Don’t worry – saving energy doesn’t have to mean shivering in the dark all through January,” says Fred Harrington, the CEO of Coupon Mister, an online platform that provides access to discount codes, coupons, and deals. Here, Fred shows you how you can keep your home cosy without breaking the bank.
1. Seal the Deal
A chilly draught under the door may as well be an invitation for higher energy bills. Here’s how to beat those nasty drafts:
- Weatherstripping: Available at any hardware store, this tape sealant is a quick and affordable way to seal gaps around doors and windows.
- Draught Stoppers: Sometimes known as draught excluders, draught stoppers are usually long cushions that block the gaps under doors to prevent drafts. Whether you buy a decorative one or DIY one with an old towel, these are lifesavers for keeping heat in and cold out.
- Drafts In The Attic And Basement: Drafts often sneak in from less obvious places, so give those areas a once-over as well.
2. Insulate Those Windows
Your windows might look innocent, but they’re often the culprits of massive heat loss. These are just some tips on how to insulate them better:
- Thermal Curtains: These thick, insulated curtains trap heat inside during the winter and block sunlight in the summer, giving you year-round savings.
- Window Insulation Kits: These kits include shrink-wrap film you can stick on your windows. A quick blast with a hairdryer seals the deal (literally), cutting down on drafts.
- Bubble Wrap Hack: Cut the bubble wrap to the size of your window and stick it on with water. “It might not win style points, but it’s surprisingly effective!” says Fred.
3. Flip The Switch On LEDs
Old-school incandescent bulbs are notorious energy guzzlers. But don’t fret; LEDs are here to save the day (and your wallet).
- Why LEDs Rock: They use up to 80% less energy, last up to 25 times longer, and produce far less heat, making them safer and cooler—literally!
- Start Small: If replacing all your bulbs at once sounds daunting, start with the ones you use most often, like kitchen and living room lights.
- Consider Smart Bulbs: Many LED options now come with smart features that let you dim or program them via an app. Mood lighting + savings? Yes, please.
4. Smart Thermostats For Smarter Bills
A smart thermostat isn’t just a gimmicky gadget—it’s a tool for serious savings.
- Set It And Forget It: You can program the smart thermostat to lower the heat when you’re at work or asleep. Even a few degrees can make a noticeable difference on your bill.
- Motion Sensors: Some models detect when you’re home and adjust the temperature automatically, so you’re never heating an empty house.
- Long-Term Investment: While a smart thermostat may cost more upfront, it pays for itself in energy savings over time.
5. Cosy Up Instead Of Cranking Up
Turning the thermostat to “tropical” doesn’t make winter disappear—it just makes your bills soar.
- Zone heating: Use a space heater for the room you’re in rather than heating the entire house. Look for energy-efficient models with safety features like automatic shutoff.
- Rug It Up: Hardwood and tile floors may look chic, but they’re notorious for making rooms feel cold. Throw down some area rugs for added warmth. “You can look through charity shops for cheap and unique finds if you don’t have cash to spare on new, expensive rugs,” suggests Fred.
6. Keep Your Appliances In Check
Your appliances might be sneaky energy vampires, quietly draining electricity even when not in use.
- Unplug Unused Devices: Chargers, gaming consoles, and even toasters consume energy in standby mode. If it’s not being used, unplug it.
- Power Strips: These make cutting power to multiple devices at once easy. Bonus points if you invest in a smart power strip that automatically shuts off idle electronics.
- Energy-Efficient Upgrades: When it’s time to replace appliances, look for ENERGY STAR-certified options. They might cost more upfront but save you big in the long run.
Fred Harrington, the CEO of Coupon Mister, commented:
“Saving energy in January is great, but it’s even better if you can start the saving during Christmas. The secret to this is to strike a balance between holiday cheer and common sense.
“Start by reassessing how many decorations you really need. Do you need lights in every single room, or could you focus on a few key areas, like the tree and front porch? A smaller but thoughtfully arranged display can actually feel cosier and more personal. And when it comes to lighting, swapping out old incandescent bulbs for LED string lights is a no-brainer.
“Timers are another lifesaver. You don’t need your lights running 24/7—set them to turn off after bedtime or when you’re out. And don’t underestimate the power of decorations that don’t plug in! Garlands, wreaths, and candles (battery-powered or real) add a festive touch without adding to your electric bill.”
