As temperatures drop like so many leaves from a maple tree, most homeowners brace themselves for higher energy bills. Heating your home can account for nearly half of your total utility costs during the colder months – but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck paying more than you should. With a few smart habits and simple upgrades, you can stay comfortable all winter long without breaking the bank.
Schedule a Professional Heating Tune-Up
Here at Anthony’s Plumbing & Heating, that’s one of our core services where we professionally prepare your furnace or boiler for the winter season to help ensure it performs flawlessly. During our tune-ups, we clean and check internal components, check all electrical components to help ensure your family’s safety, check the system’s filter, check for worn parts, and more.
Replace or Clean Air Filters Regularly
Even after your professional tune-up is completed, you can help your own cause by checking your filter every 8 to 12 weeks and cleaning or replacing it as needed. In addition to ensuring improved heating system operation, a clean filter helps keep harmful pollutants out of the air that you and your family breathe indoors.
Seal Air Leaks and Insulate
Even the best heating system can’t overcome drafts and heat loss. So be sure to check periodically for gaps around windows, doors, and attic openings, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Adding insulation to your attic or crawl space is another cost-effective way to keep more heat inside your home and reduce strain on your furnace.
Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees when you’re asleep or away can add up to big savings over time. Programmable and smart thermostats make this easy by automatically adjusting the temperature to match your schedule. Many models even learn your heating habits for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Let the Sun Work for You
Take advantage of free solar heat by opening curtains on south-facing windows during the day. When the sun goes down, close them to keep the warmth inside.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace or heat pump is more than 10 to 15 years old, upgrading to a modern, high-efficiency model can make a noticeable difference in your energy bills. New systems are designed to use less fuel while providing consistent, even heat throughout your home.
Dress for the Occasion
If you can handle this small inconvenience, we urge you to lower your thermostat a few degrees even when your home and compensate by bundling up with sweaters, hoodies, sweatpants, and warm socks. For good measure, throw a blanket across your lap and watch a good movie or football game on TV. Before you know it, you won’t even be thinking about the temperature difference.
Stay Warm and Save This Winter
Reducing your heating costs doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. With regular maintenance, good insulation, and a few slight changes around your home, you can enjoy a cozy, energy-efficient winter. For expert service and energy-saving solutions, contact Anthony’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today – we service and repair all makes and models of home heating systems, including yours.
