As winter and the holidays approach, higher utility bills can strain family budgets. The good news is that simple changes around the home can help you save money without sacrificing comfort or cheer.
Light up wisely. Holiday lights add sparkle, but old incandescent bulbs are expensive energy users. Switching to LEDs can cut lighting costs by more than 80 percent—and they last longer. Use a timer or smart plug so lights turn off automatically. You’ll save money and avoid the hassle of forgetting.
Manage your heat. Heating is often the season’s biggest expense. Keep your thermostat at about 68°F during the day and lower at night. A programmable or smart thermostat can do the adjusting for you. Seal drafty doors and windows, replace furnace filters regularly, and layer up to stay warm without cranking the heat.
Check your appliances. That second fridge in the garage? It could be driving up your bills. Unplug it if you don’t need it. Clean refrigerator coils to keep the motor from overworking. When buying new appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. While they may cost more up front, they pay off in long term savings.
Tame your water heater. Many water heaters run hotter than necessary. Setting yours to 120°F keeps water comfortable but reduces energy waste. Fix leaky faucets, install low-flow showerheads, and wash only full loads. Even switching laundry from hot to warm saves money.
Cook efficiently. Holiday meals don’t have to spike your bills. Bake multiple dishes at once and resist opening the oven door too often. Use your microwave, slow cooker or air fryer when possible—they consume far less energy than the oven.
Watch out for “vampire power.” Electronics and chargers can draw power even when switched off, sometimes adding up to 20 percent of your household’s energy use. Unplug devices or use smart power strips, especially if you’ll be away during the holidays.
Small changes can add up to big savings. By cutting energy waste, you can lower your bills and keep more money for what truly matters this season. For more energy-saving tips—as well as information on bill assistance and consumer protections—visit www.occ.ohio.gov.
Maureen Willis
Ohio Consumers’ Counsel