During the cold winter season, every homeowner wants to snuggle up in their home with their family and have a nice cup of hot cocoa. Next thing you see is your heating bill skyrocketing and still needing to use your heating system to stay warm. Your heating system makes up to about 29% of your utility bill and can go higher if there’s issues with your heating system. Here are some tips that can help save you money on your heating bills and not sacrifice your comfort.
1. Use your Heating System when Necessary
If you’re heading to work or going out of town, it makes no sense to heat an empty home. The U.S. Department of Energy has found that you can save 10% a year on your heating bills by lowering your thermostat by about 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day. Whenever you head out it’ll help lowering your thermostat to save you money each month. As well as having a smart thermostat set up to program through your phone when you want the heater on. So whenever you arrive home you can feel comfortable and not have to worry about high energy bills.
2. Seal Any Gaps or Windows
Heat loss is a big reason for having higher energy bills and colder rooms in the house. The Department of Energy found that heat loss from windows is responsible for 25 to 30% of heating energy use. It’s important to cover these gaps to save money on your energy bill and not lose any heating in your home. Seal gaps from your window and other cracks you find in your home using caulk or weatherstripping. Also closing your windows and locking them will create a better seal so no warm air escapes.
3. Replace your Dirty Filter
A dirty filter can make it hard for your heating system to run because it’s working harder. Having dirty filters can lower your energy consumption by 5 to 15% the Department of Energy has found. It’s important to change your filter every 90 days to ensure your heating system is working efficiently and not wasting energy. You’ll soon find that your indoor air quality will be cleaner and your energy bills will be lower.
4. Don’t Close Vents in Unused Rooms
You might think that closing vents in rooms you don’t really use like guest rooms can save you money on your heating bill. This actually has the opposite effect because your air system will push the air in other rooms and will affect the balance of the system if they’re closed. Your system will be working harder and create increased air pressure which will cause problems in the long term. You’ll not only be faced with issues with higher energy bills, but with leaks from your HVAC and will become less efficient.
5. Have HVAC Maintenance Done in the Fall
Having regular maintenance done by a professional HVAC technician will make sure your heating system is running efficiently and save you money on your energy bills. An annual tune-up in the fall can ensure everything is working with your heating system and fix any issues they might find. Getting it done during the fall is important so you can prepare yourself for the winter. As well as not having to call during a cold day if your heating system stops working and you’ll be left freezing at home needing to pay for costly repairs.
Doing these quick and easy tips will ensure you to save money on your energy bills while staying cozy and warm this winter season. Getting yourself prepared before the winter season hits is crucial and having an HVAC technician go over your heating system will help tremendously. Our professional team at Omni Air HVAC have the skills and knowledge to get your heating system ready and save you on your energy bills. Call us today to have your heating system tuned-up!