5 Tips To Help Keep Your Heating Bills Low This Winter
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating your home uses more energy and money than any other system in your house, accounting for an average of 29% of a home’s energy bill. But there are ways to reduce those costs without sacrificing comfort. Here are five tips.
1. Get a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats allow you to customize your home’s temperature according to your schedule, which can result in significant energy savings. For example, you can program the thermostat to lower the temperature while you are away or asleep and then raise it back to your desired temperature just in time for when you return home or wake up. In addition, many newer thermostats can be controlled remotely via your smartphone, so you can make adjustments even when you’re not at home.
2. Service Your Heating Equipment
It’s important to have your heating equipment serviced to ensure it is operating efficiently. This includes having your furnace or boiler cleaned and inspected annually, as well as replacing your air filters as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. A professional HVAC contractor in College Station, TX can also tune-up your system to ensure all the parts are working correctly and identify potential issues.
3. Repair Your Furnace on Time
Furnace repair is something that you should never ignore. If your furnace is not working efficiently, it will lead to higher energy bills. In addition, a furnace that is not working properly can pose a safety hazard. So, if you notice any strange noises or smells coming from your furnace or if it starts acting up, call a professional for furnace repair services immediately.
4. Replace Old Equipment
If your furnace or boiler is over 15 years old, it’s probably time to upgrade it. Newer models are much more energy efficient, which can lead to significant savings on your heating bills. Remember, while traditional furnaces had AFUE ratings of around 60%, high-efficiency models now boast AFUE ratings of 95% or more. That means that for every dollar you spend on fuel, nearly all of it is converted into heat for your home.
5. Seal and Insulate
One of the best ways to reduce heat loss in your home is to seal and insulate gaps and cracks, particularly in areas like the attic, walls, doors, and windows. You can also add insulation to your attic floor to further improve energy efficiency. In addition, weather stripping and caulking can help prevent drafts and air leaks.
If you follow these tips, you can reduce your heating bills this winter without sacrificing comfort. Even though the College Station winters are mild, the weather does get cold in the months of January and February. For more information about furnace repair in College Station, TX, or to schedule a service, contact Cover HVAC today. Our technicians are highly trained and experienced, and we’re always here to help.
