Manager’s Message

Fight the Winter Chill and Save Energy

We all have our favorite season. Some love crisp, cool weather and bundling up under

a favorite blanket, while others prefer the warm temperatures of summer and the outdoor activities that go with it.

But there’s one thing we can all agree on: High winter bills are never fun. Ohop Mutual Light Co. is here to help you find ways to manage your home energy use and keep winter bills in check.

Here are five tips to help increase your home’s energy efficiency this winter:

  1. Mind the This is one of the easiest ways to manage your home energy use. We recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower when you’re home. When you’re sleeping or away for an extended period, try setting it between 58 and 62 degrees. There’s no need to heat your home when you’re away or sleeping and less active.
  2. Button up your The U.S. Department of Energy estimates air leaks account for 24% to 40% of the energy used for heating and cooling a typical home. Caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors is a simple, cost-effective way to increase comfort and save energy. If you can feel drafts while standing near a closed window or door, it likely needs to be sealed.
  3. Use window coverings Open blinds, drapes and other window coverings during the day to let natural sunlight warm your home. Close them at night to keep the cold, drafty air out. If you feel cold air around windows, consider hanging curtains or drapes in a thicker material; heavier window coverings can make a significant difference in blocking cold outdoor air.
  4. Consider your approach to appliance use. When combined, appliances and electronics account for a significant chunk of our home energy use, so assess how efficiently you’re using them. For example, if you’re running the dishwasher or washing machine, only wash full Look for electronic devices that consume energy even when they’re not in use, like phone chargers or game consoles. Every little bit helps, so unplug them to save energy.
  5. Think outside the If you’re still feeling chilly at home, think of ways to warm up beyond dialing up the thermostat. Add layers of clothing, wear thick socks and bundle up under blankets. You can even add layers to your home. If you have hard-surface flooring, consider buying an area rug to block cold air that leaks in through the floor.

Winter months often bring some of the year’s highest energy bills. By being proactive about saving energy, you can increase your comfort and reduce monthly bills.