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December 1, 2026 |

Gift Yourself a Lower Energy Bill

The holidays often come wrapped in extra to-do lists, full calendars, and a few added expenses. This year, as you choose thoughtful gifts for family and friends, consider giving yourself one that keeps paying you back: a lower energy bill.

A little energy efficiency can go a long way during the season of lights, gatherings, and colder weather. Start with the simple steps below, then contact the co-op for a full list of energy-efficiency programs that can help you save even more.

Turn your thermostat down a few degrees from its usual setting and dress for the season with cozy layers, warm socks, and a blanket nearby. Small adjustments can make your home feel comfortable without making your heating system work harder than necessary.

At night, trade a higher thermostat setting for flannel sheets and a warm comforter so you can save energy while you sleep.

Insulated or lined curtains also make a practical winter “upgrade,” helping keep chilly drafts out of bedrooms, living areas, and other spaces where your household gathers.

For a gift that can deliver value well beyond the holiday season, schedule an energy audit before the coldest weather settles in. The recommended improvements from energy advisors can help your home use energy more efficiently and may reduce heating costs this winter.

Add these energy-saving ideas to your holiday checklist:

  • Give your heating system a tune-up. Schedule regular maintenance with an HVAC professional, keep your furnace clean, and replace the filter monthly to help it run efficiently.
  • Clear the way for warm air. Vacuum or clean vents regularly and make sure rugs, furniture, or decorations are not blocking airflow.
  • Keep fireplace heat from escaping. Close fireplace dampers when not in use. If you do not use your fireplace, plug and seal the flue to help keep warm air indoors.
  • Adjust the thermostat. Avoid heating an empty home by using a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you are away or asleep. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that lowering the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 10 percent!
  • Wrap up drafts. Use weather stripping around doors and windows as needed. Check attics, attic access points, outlets, walls, chimneys, and pipes entering or exiting your home for air leaks.
  • Invite in winter sunshine. Open curtains during sunny days to take advantage of natural warmth, then close window coverings after dusk to help reduce heat loss.
  • Put ceiling fans on winter mode. Set ceiling fans to run clockwise so they gently push warm air down and help redistribute heat throughout the room.
  • Add efficiency to your wish list. When it is time to replace your furnace or HVAC system, consider an energy-efficient model and look for the ENERGY STAR designation when comparing options. Our co-op offers special rebates and incentives for specific types of equipment and energy-efficiency levels.
  • Use ventilation fans only when needed. Built-in kitchen and bathroom fans can pull warm air out of your home during colder months. Turn them off as soon as they have done their job.
  • Add a little comfort to the air. A humidifier, well-watered plants, or containers of water placed around the home can add moisture to dry winter air. Because dry air feels colder, added moisture can help your home feel warmer.

This holiday season, a few smart choices can help you stay cozy, use energy wisely, and start the new year with potential savings. Contact us to learn more about energy audits or energy-efficiency programs. For more information about electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org.