When the temperatures drop, it’s natural to rely on small appliances to stay warm and cozy. But some of those winter comforts may be contributing more to your energy bill than you realize. Here’s a closer look at a few seasonal energy hogs and how to use them more efficiently.

SPACE HEATERS

Portable electric space heaters are convenient, but they can use up to 1,500 watts per hour. That adds up quickly — especially if more than one is running for several hours a day. Only use space heaters in occupied rooms, plug them directly into the wall, and turn them off when you leave the room. If you’re relying on them frequently, it may be time to evaluate your home’s insulation.

CLOTHES DRYERS

Cold weather means fewer chances to air-dry clothes outside, so dryer use tends to spike in winter. Dryers are among the top energy-hungry appliances in most homes. Clean the lint trap after every load, dry full loads when possible, and consider using dryer balls to reduce drying time. If you have space, air-drying heavier items can save a surprising amount of energy.

HUMIDIFIERS

Dry winter air leads many households to run humidifiers. While helpful for comfort and health, these devices can run for hours at a time, leading to higher use. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and run your humidifier only when necessary.

ALWAYS-ON ELECTRONICS

Spending more time indoors means TVs, streaming devices, game consoles, and computers are used more often — and may stay plugged in and drawing power even when off. Unplug devices when not in use or use a smart power strip to prevent standby energy drain.

TRACK YOUR USE IN REAL TIME

The HREMC app lets you monitor your daily and monthly use to catch unexpected spikes. Noticing an increase during certain days or times? That’s your chance to dig in and adjust habits — or check if an appliance is running harder than it should.

Need help understanding your energy trends or planning efficiency upgrades? We’re happy to help. Call 260-758-3155 or visit heartlandremc.com to learn more.