Energy bills always seem to rise as winter approaches. Looking at the breakdown of your energy usage, more than half comes from heating your home. Luckily for you, there are ways to manipulate your heating system and home, to save energy. Less energy used equates to more money in your pocket.
Drop It Low – The easiest way to save is to simply lower the temperature of your thermostat. The less heat you use, the more money you’ll save. The winter can bring on below freezing temperatures, so don’t turn it down too low! Set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature at around 68 degrees; liveable, yet cost-effective. If you’re going to be leaving the house for extended periods of time, turn the temperature down just a hair more.
Wasted Heat – Having an air leak in your home will drain your home of its heat and cause your heating system to overwork. Finding any air leaks and sealing them off can save you a nice chunk of change when it comes to your monthly heating bills. Make sure all of your windows and doors are fully closed and fit properly in their openings. If they happen to let a draft into the house, consider sealing the openings with a special caulking or weatherstripping.
A Little TLC – A heating system that is maintained on a consistent basis will run at a high efficiency. The easiest maintenance you can perform is changing the furnace filter once a month. After changing the filter, make sure the furnace is cleared of any dust and debris and is not crowded by other items. Your heating system should also be professionally maintenance once a year before it is turned on for the first time. If you happen to need any repairs, at least they will be done before the cold weather arrives.
Using these tips can help you cut down on your heating bills without suffering in the cold all winter. During your self-maintenance, if you notice that the furnace isn’t working correctly, give Tri-City Heating and Cooling a call. We’ll have your heating system working perfectly before those below freezing nights arrive. Schedule a service by contacting us at (203) 303-5700.