In Texas, summers are the season when electricity bills are typically the highest. However, that’s no reason to neglect energy-saving strategies you can easily implement to manage your fall and winter usage.

Harness the Sun

Open window shutters in the morning to let the sun heat your home naturally. In the evening, close the shutters to contain the warmth. 

Only Heat the Rooms You Need

If you have central heat, go around to each room and make sure the vents are open and clean if you use the room frequently, and close the vents if it’s not a room that’s important to heat. 

Get a Humidifier

In addition to being good for your sinuses, throat, and skin, using a humidifier to put moisture back into the air will make your home feel warmer. 

Reverse Your Fan if You Can

If you have ceiling fans in your home, check to see if they have a switch on the motor to reverse the fan direction. Running your ceiling fan clockwise in the winter—as opposed to counterclockwise in the summer when you want a downdraft—will redistribute the warm air that gathers near the fan.

Upgrade to Energy Efficient Lightbulbs

Now that it’s darker earlier, you may have lights on in your home longer. Choosing more energy efficient bulbs can help offset the increased usage and make financial sense in the long run. 

Adjust Your Water Temperature

One of the biggest sources of energy usage in the winter can be heating water. Check your water heater to see what temperature it’s set at, and try experimenting with the setting to see if a slightly cooler shower in the morning still prepares you for the day.