Idaho winter is here! And with the cold weather comes increased energy use and higher utility bills for Idahoans. However, you don’t have to break the bank to keep your home warm and comfortable during the winter months.

By taking a few simple steps, you can save energy and money while keeping your home cozy and inviting.

❄️ Weatherize your windows & doors to keep the Idaho cold out.

One of the most significant sources of lost heat from your home is through your windows and doors. Most homes have windows that aren't insulated for the cold weather, which can cause heat to escape and cold air to enter your home. It's not a very attractive solution, but covering your windows with insulation plastic can save you a lot of money over the course of the winter.

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One simple solution is to ensure your windows and doors are properly sealed and weatherized. You can do this by caulking small gaps, applying weatherstripping to movable parts, and using window attachments to keep the cold air out.

❄️ Replace your central heating filters.

Another easy way to reduce your heating costs this winter is to regularly check and replace your central heating filters.

Dirty filters trap lint, pollen, dust, and more, reducing airflow and forcing your system to work harder and take longer to heat your home. Make sure to check your filter every month and replace it if it’s dirty.

At a minimum, you should be replacing your filter at least once every three months. This will help keep your heating system running efficiently, reduce your energy use, and lower your utility bill.

❄️ Layer-up at home & adjust your thermostat. 

Sorry, friends. If you're walking around the house in December in shorts, a tank, and no socks, you'll probably still be chilly with the thermostat set at 74 degrees!

 

Consider layering up and adjusting your thermostat temp and schedule to save energy and money. By heating your home only when you or others are around, you can reduce extra costs. Programmable thermostats allow you to monitor and set your heat usage, so you can have ease of mind.

❄️ Yes, you can stay warm & save money on your Idaho heating bill. 

Winter is a time when we all want to stay warm and cozy, but that doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice our wallet or the environment to do so.

By taking simple steps like sealing your windows, checking and replacing heating filters regularly, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, and programming your thermostat, you can save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and keep your home warm and inviting.

Does your home qualify for Idaho Power's Heating & Cooling Efficiency Program? Follow this link to see if you do and save yourself even more money.

8 Reasons Idahoans Burn More Gas in Winter & 5 Ways to Stop

⚠️ Filling up your tank more frequently can put a dent in your wallet, but even Uncle Sam knows it could cost you big in fuel economy if you don't!

Scroll through the gallery for a look at why Idahoans get lower gas mileage in the winter months and what can be done to save money at the pump.

Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

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Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

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Gallery Credit: Ryan Antoinette Valenzuela

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