Stay Warm and save money San Diego
Smart heating strategies to keep comfortable while reducing your SDGE bill
Compare the costs of different heating methods in San Diego. Electric blankets heat you directly, using a fraction of the energy needed for space heaters or central heating systems. See how much you could save this winter by switching to targeted personal heating.
Electric Blanket
$0.39
per night
$11.70
per month
$58.89
winter season (Nov-Mar)
- • 0.1kWh/hour
- • 100W average usage
- • One-time cost: ~$50
- • Pays for itself in ~4 days vs central heat
Space Heater
$5.92
per night
$177.60
per month
$893.92
winter season (Nov-Mar)
- • 1.5kWh/hour
- • 1500W typical usage
- • One-time cost: ~$40
- • Uses 15x more power than blanket
Central Heat
$13.82
per night
$414.60
per month
$2086.82
winter season (Nov-Mar)
- • 3.5kWh/hour
- • 3500W+ typical usage
- • High maintenance costs
- • Heats unused spaces
Total Winter Savings Potential
Switching from central heat to an electric blanket could save you approximately $2027.93 over the winter season (November through March).
Sunbeam Heated Blanket
✓ UL certified for safety
✓ 12 heat settings
✓ Auto-shutoff after 10 hours
✓ Machine washable
✓ Digital controller with LED display
✓ Many colors / sizes to choose from
Click to see color options
Sunbeam Royal Mink Sherpa
✓ UL certified for safety
✓ Low-voltage technology
✓ Non-visible wires
✓ Automatic shutoff
✓ Machine washable & dryable
✓ Many colors / sizes to choose from
Click to see color optionsEssential Safety Features to Look For:
- • UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification
- • Automatic shutoff timer
- • Overheat protection
- • Digital temperature controller
- • Clear power indicator lights
Modern, safe electric blankets use minimal power while providing direct warmth
Benefits
- •Uses only 100W compared to 1500W for space heaters
- •Heats you directly rather than the whole room
- •Can be used with smart plugs for scheduling
- •Most have auto-shutoff safety features
Potential Savings
Could save $400+ per month compared to running central heat
Tip: Look for models with auto-shutoff and UL certification
Program your thermostat for optimal comfort and savings
Benefits
- •Set lower temperatures while sleeping
- •Pre-heat before peak rate periods
- •Zone heating for occupied rooms only
- •Remote control via smartphone
Potential Savings
10-25% on heating costs with proper programming
Tip: Lower temperature 1°F can reduce energy use by 3%
Recommended Smart Thermostats
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
✓ Smart scheduling & geofencing
✓ Remote temperature sensors
✓ Energy use reporting
✓ Integrates with Alexa/Google Assistant
✓ ENERGY STAR certified
View on AmazonHoneywell Color Thermostat
✓ Auto-schedule learning
✓ Energy history tracking
✓ Home/Away assist
✓ Remote control via app
✓ ENERGY STAR certified
View on AmazonMaximize heat retention with proper window management
Benefits
- •Open curtains during sunny hours for solar heat
- •Close at night to retain warmth
- •Block drafts from windows and doors
- •Add door sweeps and weatherstripping
Potential Savings
Up to 25% reduction in heat loss through windows
Tip: Check for drafts with a candle flame or thermal camera
Recommended Thermal Curtains
NICETOWN Blackout Curtains
✓ Triple-weave fabric technology
✓ Blocks 85-99% of light
✓ Reduces heat loss by up to 25%
✓ Machine washable
✓ Multiple sizes & colors
View on AmazonCHICOLOGY Cellular Shades
✓ Honeycomb cells reduce noise and regulate temperature.
✓ Energy-efficient liner
✓ Noise reduction
✓ Easy maintenance
Click to see color optionsComplete Draft Prevention Kit
Door Sweep/Draft Stopper
Block cold air from entering under doors with an easy-to-install door sweep. These simple devices can significantly reduce drafts and heat loss through door gaps.
Window Shrink Film Kit
Create an extra barrier of insulation on your windows. This clear film is nearly invisible once installed and can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 40%.
Weatherstripping Tape
Seal gaps around windows and doors where air can leak through. This durable adhesive tape creates a tight seal while still allowing windows and doors to open normally.
Outlet Insulation Gaskets
Electrical outlets on exterior walls can be significant sources of drafts. These foam gaskets install behind outlet covers to block air leaks and improve insulation.
Day (8am-4pm)
Open curtains for solar heat, maintain lower base temperature
Why: Take advantage of natural warmth and lower rates
Peak Hours (4pm-9pm)
Use electric blankets or targeted heating instead of whole-house heating
Why: Avoid expensive peak rates while staying comfortable
Night (9pm-8am)
Electric blankets for sleeping, lower house temperature
Why: Save money while sleeping comfortably
Maximize Your Savings
Make sure you're on the best rate plan for your winter heating needs. Compare rate plans here.