How to Save Money on Heating Costs
No other system in the home uses more energy and makes up a significant portion of the energy bills than the heating system.
No other system in the home uses more energy and makes up a significant portion of the energy bills than the heating system. The inflated heating bills during the winter months are a cause of concern for several homeowners. As energy prices soar across the county, keeping the home warm and comfortable now comes with a hefty price.
Fortunately, there are several other ways to save some dollars on heating costs than simply turning the heating off. Here are a few ways homeowners can protect themselves from paying a high utility bill without shivering away on a cold night:
Seal air leaks
Loss of heated air makes it difficult for the heating system to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, forcing it to use more energy. A vital part of saving money on heating bills is to ensure the home does not leak any air. Seal up the ducts around the joints, keep the doors and windows tightly closed, and look for cracks, gaps, holes, or damaged weatherstripping. If there is a leak anywhere in the house, use caulk or weatherstripping to seal it.
Let in sunlight
Make full use of the sun's heat to warm the house. Open curtains or blinds on a sunny day to heat the home naturally for free. Close the drapes after the sun sets to retain the heat.
Regularly replace the furnace filter
A dirty or clogged filter restricts airflow and makes the heating system work harder, lowering its efficiency and raising energy costs. Regularly replacing dirty air filters is an easy and cost-efficient way to save money on monthly heating costs.
Adjust the thermostat settings
Lowering the thermostat by a few degrees for a few hours a day while being away from home or sleeping at night can offer significant savings on energy bills each month. Also, upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust the home heating based on one's schedule. It will help maximize one's savings but also ensure optimum comfort.
Call a professional for an energy audit
A home energy audit is an excellent way to understand where the home is losing heat, what steps need to be taken, and which areas to focus on to improve efficiency and save money on energy bills. A professional is equipped with the best tools and equipment and can help implement various energy-saving measures.
Use ceiling fans
Homes with reversible ceiling fans can use them during colder months to distribute warm air. Change the direction of the fan blades clockwise to push down the warm air that has risen above.
Schedule an annual tune-up
Calling in a professional to service and maintain the heating system yearly keeps the unit working efficiently and at its best, leading to savings on heating bills. Regular inspections and tune-ups also help identify minor issues and fix them before they can demand extensive repairs.
A few other ways to reduce the heating cost:
Add insulation
Close the doors of the unused rooms
Ensure all the vents are open and clear off any obstructions
Use humidifiers or a space heater
Replace the old and outdated heating system
Minimize usage of bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans
Contact a local HVAC contractor for furnace maintenance or replacement.
Evenflow Home and Commercial Services of San Antonio offers impeccable house cleaning services, professional plumbing, electrician services, HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. Our technicians offer 24-hour emergency electrical and HVAC service for San Antonio, Schertz, Converse, Floresville, Elmendorf, and more. Call us at (210)941-3503.
