Environment, Rockville Reports

Stay Warm, Save Money, Help the Planet

Being energy smart doesn’t mean being cold. Simple habits like sealing drafts and adjusting thermostats can cut heating costs by 10-15% without sacrificing comfort. These small steps keep homes cozy, wallets happy and carbon footprints low. 

Cold Facts: 

• Heating can make up over half of your winter energy bills. 
• Drafts around doors and windows can waste up to 30% of your home’s heat. 
• Save 1-2% in cost for every degree the thermostat is lowered. 

Warm Tips: 

• Turn the thermostat down 2-3 degrees when asleep or out of the house. 
• Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise on low speed to circulate warm air. 
• Reduce drafts by rolling up an old towel or sew a “door snake,” a stuffed fabric tube, to block cold air from sneaking in under doors. 
• Heat the person rather than the room: layer up with sweaters, fuzzy socks or a small, heated blanket. 
• Use thick curtains and area rugs to reduce cold from windows and floors. 
• Unplug chargers and gadgets when not using them or plug them into a power strip that is easily turned off.