As cold temperatures arrive, Middle Tennessee Electric (MTE) encourages members to prepare and adopt simple energy-saving practices to manage their energy costs effectively. Here are some practical tips to keep your home warm and your energy bills manageable:
- Optimize thermostat settings: Set your thermostat to 68°F or the lowest comfortable temperature. For every degree above 68°F, your electric bill can increase by approximately 3%. Stay cozy by wearing extra layers and bundling up.
- Adjust water heater temperature: Lower your water heater setting to 120°F. Conserve hot water by taking shorter showers and using cold water for laundry whenever feasible.
- Seal drafts: Check for and seal leaks around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping. You can also use materials like cardboard, plastic, or blankets to reduce heat loss. During the day, open window coverings on the sunny side of your home to let in natural warmth and close them at night to retain heat.
- Rotate ceiling fan blades: During winter, ensure your ceiling fan blades rotate clockwise at the lowest speed. This helps circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling back down to your living space.
- Maintain HVAC systems: Replace return air filters regularly and keep your heating system clean and well-maintained. A clean filter improves airflow and reduces the strain on your system.
- Avoid heat-drying dishes: Switch off your dishwasher’s heat-drying option and allow dishes to air dry instead.
- Use large appliances strategically: Operate washing machines, dryers, dishwashers and other large appliances during the warmest part of the day when heating demand is lower.
- Leverage the myMTE app: The myMTEapp provides insights into your household’s energy usage. Compare energy use during different times of the day with outdoor temperatures to better understand how colder weather impacts your consumption.
- Consider the Novelized plan: MTE’s Levelized plan smooths out monthly billing fluctuations caused by weather and energy use. This plan calculates an average based on the past 12 months’ energy consumption, resulting in consistent, manageable payments. For more details, visit mte.com/MyEnergyPlan or call 877-777-9020.
MTE’s team of energy efficiency experts is ready to help members optimize their energy use. To schedule a free Home Energy Checkup, visit mte.com/HomeEnergyCheckups or call 877-777-9020 to speak with an Energy Pro.
For more energy-saving tips and resources, visit mte.com/EnergyTips.
