7 Methods to Lower Your Heating Bill in Windsor This Winter
Your house is probably at the top of the list of your most treasured investments. It assists you financially through equity-building, and it’s an area to watch your family grow and create memories, too. This time of year, you may also face increased utility costs.
As a consequence, finding techniques to lower your heating bill in Windsor without compromising comfort can seem harder than it needs to be.
When it comes to energy efficiency, houses resemble vehicles. Some require a lot of energy while others drink it slowly. Regardless of what type of house you live in, there are steps to end the discomfort this winter. The Experts are here with seven suggestions to help you stay comfy without driving up your energy bill.
1. Replace Your Your Air Filter
It’s the most inexpensive recommendation out there. It’s also the best approach to keep your heater running properly throughout the winter.
The type of filter and seasonal determinants contribute to how regularly you should replace it. Increased allergen counts, pets and home size might also affect its life span. Typically, cheap filters should be changed each month. Pleated ones made with better material might work for three months or longer.
“It’s really the big thing folks forget about,” 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 move through it and actually warm the house. A clogged filter makes your HVAC system work harder.”
2. Schedule Regular HVAC Service
It’s standard to have a tech come to your residence in the spring for AC service. That way, your unit is prepared for the warm weather.
But don’t neglect to schedule an appointment for furnace service before the winter too.
Among other steps, an inspection typically includes:
- Examining thermostat settings
- Cleaning and lubricating internal components
- Taking a look at system shutdown and startup procedures
Maintenance helps lessen the likelihood of dealing with an emergency repair in the middle of a blizzard. Some reports have found as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been avoided with standard tune-ups.
3. Inspect Windows and Doors for Leaks
Windows and doors are a primary entry point for cold air. Insulating window and door frames is an economical way to help keep frigid air out.
Here’s one test that Hughes advises.
Close a door. Can you see any light? If that’s what’s happening, it’s not entirely sealed. Modifications or weather-stripping might be needed.
If your house has single-pane windows, you should think over a dual-pane upgrade.
Some homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic wrap.
It’s not a bad move, but dual-pane windows provide superior insulation for keeping cool air outside.
When you switch to double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or higher.
4. Restrict Use of Vented Appliances
If you need the exhaust fan throughout cooking, Hughes suggests against leaving it on for too long.
The same applies to for the dryer. Don’t allow it to work after your clothes are ready.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan expels heated air outside and pulls in cold air. Using these appliances all the time will force your heater to work harder to manage the avoidable chill.
5. Look at Your House’s Outer Edges for Holes
Check your residence’s perimeter. This is the barrier that shields your home from the weather. If you have a basement, look for blowing cobwebs or cool air flowing in around the corners.
Polyurethane sealers and other options can be purchased to mend basement walls allowing air into your residence. Another cost-effective tip is to invest foam seals for fixture bottoms, such as ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re simple to install and are great at keeping the cold air out in the winter.
6. Check Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth making sure that you have appropriate insulation levels
Hughes suggests checking the ENERGY STAR® zone map to find the suitable R-value for your house’s walls and attic space. This recommendation is based on the geographic location where you’re located.
7. Sign Up for Our Advantage Program™
Winter might be tough for homeowners with underperforming units.
If your furnace is malfunctioning or in need of costly fixes, there’s a reasonable chance you’re not able to spend thousands on a modern system.
That’s why we offer our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you prevent costly service calls through a low monthly fee.
We’ll also put in a high-efficiency system in your home. Plus our pro techs will repair and maintain it for you without any additional out-of-pocket fee
Request an Appointment with Us Today
Make your Windsor house more energy efficient with expert help from Service Experts.
For more information about our Advantage Program or to book an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 226-773-3357 or contact us online today.