Your home is likely among your most precious investments. It supports you financially through improving equity, and it’s an area to raise your family and create memories, too. This time of year, you might also be experiencing rising energy bills.
As a result, finding ways to lower your heating bill in North America without compromising comfort can feel harder than it needs to be.
When it comes to energy efficiency, houses are like cars. Some require a lot of energy while others sip it gradually. Regardless of what sort of residence you live in, there are ways to end the chill this winter. The Experts are here with seven tips to keep your family warm without driving up your energy bill.
1. Get a New Your Air Filter
It’s the most inexpensive solution out there. It’s also the best method to keep your heating system running smoothly through the winter.
The model of filter and seasonal determinants influence how often you should get a new one. High allergen counts, pets and residence size can also impact its life span. Generally, cheap filters should be changed monthly. Pleated models made with higher-quality material may make it three months or longer.
“It’s really the big thing people ignore,” said Jim Hughes, senior manager of education and training at Service Experts. “The more loaded up the filter is, the less air is able to be filtered through it and actually heat the home. A clogged filter makes your heating system work harder.”
2. Schedule Annual HVAC Service
It’s common to have an Expert stop by your home in the spring for AC service. That way, your air conditioner is prepared for the warm weather.
But don’t forget to schedule an appointment for furnace service before it gets cold too.
Among other actions, an inspection typically covers:
- Checking thermostat settings
- Cleaning and lubricating internal components
- Taking a look at system shutdown and startup procedures
Maintenance helps decrease the probability of facing an emergency repair in the middle of a cold snap. Some reports have found as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been avoided with regular service.
3. Examine Windows and Doors for Cracks
Windows and doors are a central entry point for chilly air. Caulking window and door frames is an practical way to help keep frigid air where it belongs.
Here’s one test that Hughes advises.
Close a door. Do you notice any light? If that’s what’s happening, it’s not totally sealed. Adjustments or weather-stripping could be needed.
If your house has single-pane windows, you should consider a dual-pane upgrade.
Some homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting.
It’s not a bad idea, but dual-pane windows provide much better insulation for keeping cold air where it belongs.
When you switch to double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or greater.
4. Regulate Use of Vented Appliances
If you require the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes suggests against leaving it on for a long time.
The same goes for for the dryer. Don’t permit it to operate after your clothes are done.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan forces out heated air out and adds cold air. Operating these appliances continuously will force your HVAC system to work harder to fight the avoidable chill.
5. Inspect Your Residence’s Outer Edges for Cracks
Examine your home’s building envelope. This is the boundary that separates your home from the outside. If you have a basement, be on the lookout for blowing cobwebs or cool air trickling in around the corners.
Polyurethane sealant and other options can be used to plug basement walls letting air into your residence. Another economical tip is to add foam seals for fixture bottoms, like ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re quick to use and are great at blocking cold air in the winter.
6. Evaluate Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth confirming that you have adequate insulation levels
Hughes suggests checking the ENERGY STAR® zone map to locate the appropriate R-value for your home’s walls and attic space. This value is formulated on the geographic spot where you’re located.
7. Think About Our Advantage Program™
Winter can be tough for homeowners with underperforming units.
If your furnace is not working right or needing expensive fixes, there’s a reasonable chance you’re not set to spend thousands on a new system.
That’s why we have our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you bypass expensive fixes through a modest monthly fee.
We’ll also put in an energy-efficient system in your home. Plus our professional techs will fix and service it for you without any additional out-of-pocket fee
Request an Appointment with Us Now
Make your North America home more energy efficient with professional assistance from Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
For more specifics about our Advantage Program or to schedule an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 866-397-3787 or contact us online right away.