Leading up to Christmas, we are usually focused on spending our hard-earned money on gifts for our family members and on attending festive events. After the holidays are over, we are usually left with a pile of receipts and an empty bank account. What you do not need on top of these already expensive months is an exaggerated heating bill!
Knowing how to save on the heating bill can help. Here are five tips you can take to help ease the money crunch during the winter months by lowering your energy bill.
- Adjust Your Thermostat
Energy.gov says, “You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day from its normal setting.” The experts suggest, “setting the thermostat to 68 degrees while you’re awake and setting it lower while you’re asleep or away from home.” - Stock up on Simple Fixes
Sometimes the easiest answers are the most simple and inexpensive. Try some of the following fixes for keeping warm while not relying so much on forced air.
– Slippers or wool socks
– Blankets, including electric blankets
– Humidifiers and space heaters
– Ceiling fans set to rotate clockwise at a low speed to push warm air down
– Furnace filters, which should be changed according to the package instructions - Cover or Seal Heat Leaks
Putting heavy drapes or plastic over uncovered windows (such as in a garage, attic, or unfinished basement) can really help reduce cold air from coming into your home and warm air from leaking out of it. Also, be on the lookout for any cracks or openings that could use extra caulking, higher quality weather stripping, or a door sweep and consider adding extra insulation in your attic, basement, and around your heating ducts. - Check the Fireplace
While using your fireplace is a great and cozy way to heat your home without expending a lot of energy, you need to ensure you’re not losing more heat than you’re gaining. Here is some advice for using your fireplace efficiently:
– When using your fireplace, lower your thermostat to between 50 and 55 degrees
– When not using your fireplace, close the damper. If not using the fireplace for an extended period, plug and seal the chimney flue
– Install tempered glass doors, a heat-air exchange, and C-shaped metal tube grates
– Check the seal on the flue damper and around the earth - Schedule a Furnace Service Appointment
Now that the cold air is upon us, it’s time to make a service appointment. A heating tune-up will typically include:
– Inspecting for wear and tear, cracks, and other issues
– Cleaning the outdoor unit, blower, fan, blades, coil, and drain line
– Lubricating motor parts
– Checking for fumes and leaks
– Testing the pilot (igniter), airflow, fuel pressure, thermostat controls, and more
– Making adjustments using a Performance Evaluation Computer (PEC)
Having the proper maintenance performed will keep your furnace running efficiently, keeping you toasty warm all winter long without breaking the bank.
Call, text, message, or request an appointment online with the experts at Absolute Air!