As the days grow shorter and temperatures start to dip, October is the ideal time to get cozy while keeping energy costs low. Change your energy use habits with these timely strategies you can apply right now to save energy and money:
Drafty doors, windows and attic access points can let warm air escape, increasing your heating load. A few affordable fixes go a long way:
- Apply caulking or weather stripping around doors, windows and attic hatches.
- Use insulated foam gaskets behind switch plates and electrical outlets on exterior walls.
Heating and cooling often account for 35–45% of a typical home’s electric bill, so small tweaks here can lead to big savings:
- Change your HVAC filter every 1–2 months to maintain efficiency— clogged filters can balloon bills by 5–15%.
- Schedule a professional performance check-up
Adjusting your thermostat by even a few degrees can make a noticeable difference:
- Aim for 68°F in winter. Each degree above that can increase heating costs by about 3%.
- Replace any burnt-out or frequently used bulb with an LED. They use 25– 80% less energy and last much longer.
- In the kitchen, cook efficiently: use a slow cooker for long stews, keep lids on pots and only preheat the oven when needed.
Even when appliances are off, many continue to draw power, a phenomenon known as standby or “phantom” load:
- Use a power strip to completely switch off groups of appliances when not in use.
- Unplug chargers, electronics and entertainment devices when
Why Now?
October marks the transition into a heavier heating season. These efficiency upgrades and habits ensure you get ahead of rising bills and get the most comfort from your energy usage. By combining small behavioral changes with DIY upgrades, you’ll stay warm and save, and aren’t those the two best parts of fall?
