5 Ways to Save Money on Heating Services
It’s that time of year again when temperatures go down and thermostats go up. There is nothing quite like coming home from a cold winter’s day and opening the front door to a warm, comfortable house. All this comfort has a cost, though, as when you receive your first utility bill during the winter, the high cost instantly takes all the fun out of being so comfortable.
It doesn’t have to be this way, and with a few easy steps, you’ll be able to no longer break the bank being warm this winter.
Have Your Furnace Serviced by a Professional
Even the best furnace needs annual service to perform at its peak. A quick, once-a-year appointment with a company like Derek Sawyers Smart Energy Heating & Air will ensure your furnace runs efficiently and safely.
They check to ensure all components are in proper working order, that the filter doesn’t need to be replaced, and then clean the dust from all areas in the furnace. This simple tune-up could save you major money, especially if the winter is especially frigid.
Keep Your Filter Clean
Energy Star recommends replacing your furnace filter at least every three months. However, it is recommended that you take a look at it at least once a month, and, if it’s dirty, replace it, no matter how long it’s been since the last replacement.
A dirty filter provides less area for air to pass through, thus making your furnace work harder to keep air moving, and, ultimately, costing you more money to operate.
Use a Space Heater
If you typically only use one or two rooms in your house, consider a space heater or single-room heater to provide the warmth you need without wasting energy heating the rest of your home.
These heaters may be somewhat less efficient than your main furnace, but since they’re much smaller, will still typically use less energy to keep you warm. Be sure to use proper safety precautions when using a space heater to prevent a fire.
Fix Air Leaks around Windows and Doors
Windows and doors provide two of the easiest entry routes for cold air during the winter. To keep your furnace from having to constantly run, check for leaks around all windows and exterior doors, then use simple caulk or weather stripping to plug the holes, and keep the cold air outside, where it belongs.
Upgrade Your Insulation
If your home is inadequately insulated, no amount of proper maintenance or weather sealing will make a substantial difference on your utility bill. Have a contractor check out the insulation in your attic and walls, and, if needed, add insulation to reach recommended levels.
Many utility companies offer grants to reimburse you for some or all of the cost of an insulation project, so check with them before beginning your project.
Everyone deserves a warm, comfortable home this winter. With a few easy steps, you can have just that, while also saving major money on that dreaded utility bill.
Category: Home Repair
