Bright ideas to save energy in the winter
When it's cold outside, these are the best ways to conserve energy inside.
Why is my energy bill higher in the winter?
Winter heating can lead to higher energy bills. Several factors can impact your monthly energy bill.
COLDER WEATHER
Cold temperatures can have a major impact on your bill. Even if you don't adjust your thermostat, your heater is working harder to maintain the same indoor temperature when it's cold outside.
SHORTER DAYS
The short days of winter mean we spend more time with our lights on.
HOLIDAYS
Energy use often increases around the holidays due to holiday lights and decorations, doing more cooking than usual and hosting gatherings.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
How efficient is your home? Adequate insulation can make a big difference in your energy bill. Learn more about how to save energy and money through energy efficiency.
So many things can increase a bill during the wintertime. Just a few examples are:
- Engine block heaters
- Space heaters
- Heat lamps for animals or heated water troughs
- Hot tubs
- Christmas lights, extra baking and holiday company
- Heated garages
How can I save energy in the wintertime?
EVALUATE YOUR INSULATION LEVELS
Adding insulation will help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Note: In the winter, cold floors and walls are signs of a poorly insulated home.
CHECK YOUR HEATING EQUIPMENT
Make sure your furnace or other heating equipment is working properly by having it regularly checked and serviced. And change your furnace filter often to keep it clean!
INSPECT YOUR WINDOWS AND DOORS FOR AIR LEAKS
You have air leaks if you can see daylight peeking around your door or window frame. Simply seal up the leaks by caulking, adding weather stripping or installing a door sweep.
Adjust your thermostat
When you are home and awake, set the thermostat as low as is comfortable. When you are asleep or out of the house, turn the thermostat back to save as much as 10% a year on your heating bills.
Lower Holiday Lighting Costs
Use light-emitting diode, or "LED," holiday light strings to reduce the cost of decorating the home for the winter holidays.
Reduce Heat Loss from your Fireplace
Keep the fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a window wide open during the winter.
Take Advantage of Heat from the Sun
Open curtains on the south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat the home, and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.
Cover Drafty Windows
Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of window frames during the cold winter months. You can also install tight-fitting, insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty.
We're here to help
We know many of you are concerned about your energy bills this winter. Reach out to us right away. We have billing and payment options that may help.
Payment Assistance
If you are worried about your ability to pay a higher energy bill, there are payment assistance programs available.
Budget Billing
With Budget Billing, your NorthWestern Energy bill is the same amount each month, year round.
Payment Arrangements
We can also explore a payment arrangement if your account qualifies. Log in to your My Energy Account for payment and billing program information. Or call our Customer Service Team at
800-245-6977 to discuss additional options.
Be Energy Efficient
Save money by being more energy efficient. Check out our top-10 low-cost or no-cost tips for energy efficiency.
Is your furnace ready for winter?
Is your furnace ready for winter?
When was the last time you had your furnace inspected? Can’t recall? That means it is time for an inspection. A well-maintained furnace is more efficient and safe. You should have all natural gas appliances, furnaces, vents, flues, chimneys and gas lines in your home or business inspected every year or two by a qualified industry professional. In addition, stock up on furnace filters and change them monthly.
Track your energy use in My Energy Account
With My Energy Account, you can visually track your energy use, month-to-month and year-over-year. Understanding your energy use can help you develop habits to save energy and money.
Find ways to save
From tax credits to energy-saving tips, there are many ways to help save on your monthly energy bill.