Practical Energy-Saving Behaviors During Extreme Weather

1. Adjust Your Thermostat

• In Summer: Set your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) during the day when you’re home, and raise it to 85°F (29°C) when you’re away. This small adjustment can significantly cut down on your cooling costs.
• In Winter: Lower your thermostat to 68°F (20°C) during the day and consider dropping it to 60°F (16°C) at night or when you’re away. A programmable thermostat can help automate these changes.

2. Utilize Fans Wisely

• In Summer: Use ceiling fans to create a wind-chill effect. Make sure your fans are set to rotate counter-clockwise to push cool air down.
• In Winter: Switch your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise to circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the living space.

3. Seal Drafts and Insulate

• In Winter: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weather stripping or draft stoppers to keep warm air in and cold air out. Insulating your home, especially in the attic, can help maintain a consistent temperature.
• In Summer: Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun’s heat. Reflective window film can also help keep your home cooler.

4. Limit Appliance Use

• During Heat Waves: Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens or dryers during the hottest part of the day. Instead, try using a microwave or grill outside.
• During Cold Snaps: Use appliances that generate heat efficiently, like slow cookers or electric kettles, to minimize the need for heating your entire home.

5. Embrace Natural Ventilation

• In Summer: Open windows during the cooler parts of the day (like early morning or late evening) to let in fresh air. Close them when the temperature rises to trap cooler air inside.
• In Winter: On sunny days, open curtains to let sunlight in and warm your home naturally, then close them at night to keep the warmth inside.

6. Wear Appropriate Clothing

• In Summer: Dress in lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool without cranking up the air conditioning.
• In Winter: Layer up with sweaters and warm socks instead of immediately turning up the thermostat.

7. Use Smart Power Strips

• In Both Seasons: Plug your electronics into smart power strips that can cut off power to devices when they’re not in use. This helps to reduce the energy drain from ‘phantom loads’—the energy used by devices that are turned off but still plugged in.

By implementing these energy-saving behaviors during extreme weather, you can not only reduce your energy bills but also contribute positively to the environment. Remember, small changes can make a big difference!