Make a resolution to save energy this winter

Lower temperatures and spending extra time at home means more heating, streaming, and electricity use.

Here are some ideas to help you save energy and lower your bill while staying comfortable during the colder winter months.

Reset your hot water heater: After heating and cooling systems, water heaters are the second-highest source of energy usage in the home. It takes a lot of energy to heat water and most people have the thermostat on their water heater set too high. Your water heater heats water to a set temperature, then maintains that temperature 24/7. That means that your water heater just cycles on and off, continually reheating water to that temperature, whether you use it or not. Even lowering the temperature a few degrees will help lower your energy costs.
Insulate your home: Properly insulating your home provides resistance to heat loss and lowers heating costs while improving your comfort level. Find the best insulation for your home when you visit gov/EnergySaver/insulation.
Adjust the temperature: When you are asleep or not home, turn your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours and save around 10% a year on your heating bills. A smart or programmable thermostat lets you set it and forget it. Learn about SDG&E’s Smart Thermostat Program at com/thermostat.
Weatherize your home: Sealing leaks with caulk, weatherstripping and expanding foam is a quick and easy way to lower your heating expenses. Inspect these areas for any cracks or gaps that could cause air leaks – doors, windows, places where plumbing and wiring pass through the walls, mail slots, foundation seals, baseboards, attic hatches and mounted air conditioners.
Maintain your heating systems: Heating your home uses more energy than any other system in your house so it’s important to properly maintain your equipment. Replace your HVAC filter around once a month. A dirty filter can increase your electricity costs because your HVAC system needs to work harder to pump warm air into your home. Get more tips at gov/EnergySaver/home-heating-systems.
Reduce heat loss from the fireplace: Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a window wide open during the winter; it allows warm air to go right up the chimney. When you use the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window around one inch and close doors leading into the room. Visit gov/BurnWise for fire-burning tips.