Live long enough, and you realize the world is full of all sorts of different people. Some prefer summers. Others prefer winter. Some are morning people, while others are night owls. But, no matter where you look or where you go, one thing seems to be a common denominator — the majority of individuals love to save money. And while getting a good bargain while out shopping feels good, lowering costs on a recurring bill feels even better.
6 Ways to Save on Heating Costs This Winter
So, now that the holidays are right around the corner, what can you do to save on heating costs this winter?
1. Conduct a home energy audit
You can hire a professional or do it on your own. It’ll allow you to see if there are any leaky windows that need to be sealed, or if your home needs additional insulation. This is crucial, since having leaks can result in additional energy costs of up to 20% a year. A bonus factor of conducting an audit is that not only will you find out whether you can adjust your AC to save on energy bills, you’ll also find other ways to save — such as by updating lightbulbs and changing settings in electronics and other appliances.
2. Adjust the setting when you’re not home
By resetting your thermostat by seven to 10 degrees from its regular setting for eight hours a day, you’ll save about 10% a year off your energy costs. During winter, set the heater at 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celcius). If 68 sounds too cold for your family, adjust it by a few degrees, but keep it close enough to that temperature. You can let your body adjust slowly to it by wearing warm clothes, socks, slippers, and drinking hot tea or cocoa.
3. Ensure the return vents are unobstructed
Walk around every room in your home to check if there’s any furniture, curtain, drapes, or appliance blocking the return vents. This will ensure consistent temperatures in every room in your home, as well as energy efficiency. And, speaking of unobstructed air vents, make sure your air ducts are in prime condition — if you can hear a rattling sound, they emit a funky smell, or your home is dustier than usual despite cleaning it regularly, you may want to have an HVAC technician inspect them to see if they need to be replaced.
4. Change the air filter
If you haven’t been changing it monthly or bi-monthly, it’s time to start doing so now. This will ensure better air quality, lower utility bills, and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. If you have any pets, allergy sufferers, or smokers in your home, invest in HEPA filters, since they trap a higher number of contaminants. If your filters are washable, make sure to wait until they’re fully dry before reinstalling them. Failing to do so can lead to mold growth. If you’re in a hurry to get them dry, use a blowdryer in the lowest heat setting.
5. Install a programmable thermostat
As mentioned earlier, changing your thermostat’s settings for when you’re not home does wonders to lower your energy bill. Programmable thermostats make it easier by allowing you to preset the temperature for the times you’re usually home and the times you’re away. And, since the temperature starts adjusting several minutes before you return, your home will already be comfortable once you walk through the front door. Up the ante by installing a smart thermostat, which allows you to program it remotely from your mobile devices — such as your phone or tablet.
6. Schedule HVAC maintenance
The average lifespan of an HVAC system is about 20 years, provided you schedule regular maintenance. Doing so twice a year will not only ensure its longevity, but it also gives you advance notice of any potential issues — such as a blocked drain line, frozen coils, or a refrigerant leak. And since a technician will keep your unit in tip-top shape, it’ll also run more efficiently, saving you money.
AC Service in Brevard County
At Colman, we can help you with routine maintenance checks as well as troubleshooting air conditioning issues. We also have a 24/7 AC emergency line. Call us if you need assistance ASAP, or to schedule routine HVAC maintenance.
24-HR Emergency Service: (321) 269-4565
