Small changes at home can help lower your energy bill and reduce strain on the electric grid—especially during extreme weather. Use the tips below to save energy year-round.

How to Save Money During Extreme Heat ☀️

  • Raise your thermostat. Every degree higher can help reduce energy use.

  • Use smaller appliances. Try a microwave, toaster oven, or air fryer instead of the oven to avoid heating up your kitchen.

  • Close blinds and curtains. Keep them closed during the hottest part of the day to block sunlight.

  • Use fans to stay cool. Ceiling or box fans help you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.

  • Avoid peak hours. Try not to run large appliances between 3–6 PM, when energy demand is highest. #BeatThePeak

How to Save Money During Cold Weather ❄️

  • Mind the thermostat. Set it to 68°F or lower if you have a traditional heating system.

  • Layer up. Wear warmer clothing and use heavier blankets for extra comfort.

  • Don’t block vents. Make sure furniture or rugs aren’t covering heating vents or radiators.

  • Use sunlight. Open curtains during the day to let sunlight warm your home. Close them at night to keep cold air out.

  • Seal air leaks. Use caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors to keep warm air inside.

  • Avoid peak hours. Try not to run large appliances between 6–9 AM, when demand is highest. #BeatThePeak

Save Money Year-Round 💡

1. Upgrade Your Lighting

Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs. LEDs use at least 75% less energy and last much longer.

2. Adjust Your Thermostat

Raise or lower temperatures depending on the season—especially at night or when you’re away from home.

3. Plug in Smarter

Many electronics still use power when turned off.

  • Unplug chargers and devices when not in use.

  • Use advanced power strips or smart plugs that automatically turn devices off.

4. Use Window Treatments

  • Open shades and curtains on sunny days to bring in warmth during colder months.

  • Close them at night to help retain heat and reduce heating costs.

5. Seal Air Leaks

Check for gaps around windows and doors. Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal leaks and improve comfort while lowering energy use.

Looking to Save Even More?

Consider hiring a qualified professional to perform a home energy audit. An auditor can identify where your home is losing energy and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and comfort.

Stay Informed During High Demand

Want a heads-up when energy demand is high?
Sign up for Peak Alerts:
🔗 https://energysmartsc.org/peakalert/

More Energy-Saving Tips

For additional ways to save energy and money year-round, visit:
🔗 https://www.ecsc.org/energy-tips