Ways to Increase Your Furnace’s Energy Efficiency
With winter on the way, you may be looking at your energy bills with trepidation. The freezing months often bring an increase in electricity or natural gas costs, depending on what fuel source you use to heat your home and hot water. But don’t fret—with the right approach, you can control your winter energy efficiency and save a pile of cash. Here’s how to optimize your climate control system to keep your home pleasant without draining your finances.
Book Fall Furnace Maintenance
Your HVAC system is like a car—it runs easier when well-maintained. Arranging annual preventative maintenance before winter arrives boosts your system’s efficiency and can save you up to 5% on energy costs. Beyond helping your HVAC equipment function more efficiently, this scheduled check can reveal any potential issues. Finding and repairing these problems early prevents disruptions during the heating season and more costly repair bills mid-season.
Upgrade Your Old Furnace
If your furnace is more than 10 years old and frequently failing, it could be the right time for furnace replacement. Outdated systems can be a substantial drain on your finances, costing you more in energy and repairs than what you would save by replacing them. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency Energy Star®-certified system can reduce your utility bills by as much as 40%. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more consistently cozy indoor environment when your heating system furnace meets today’s standards.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Remember those sweltering summer days when you programmed your thermostat to 78 degrees to save money? Well, that setting won’t help you in the winter. Make the most of your thermostat for the season by configuring it to 70 degrees or less. Every degree you drop the temperature can save you up to 3% on your heating bill.
Better yet, invest in a smart programmable thermostat you can set and forget. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices permit you to adjust your home’s temperature anywhere you are. The most advanced learning models make automatic adjustments taking into account your behaviors, helping you stay comfortable while saving energy when you’re away or sleeping.
Change the Air Filter
A furnace air filter has an impact on how efficiently your HVAC system runs. A dirty, obstructed filter forces the HVAC system to work harder to circulate air, raising energy consumption. To avoid this situation, check the filter monthly and replace it every 1-3 months as a cost-effective and easy way to improve winter energy efficiency.
Assess Your Air Registers
The little details count. Quickly dusting your supply and return registers eliminates hair, dirt and other blockages that impede airflow. Once clean, ensure your curtains, rugs and furniture don’t block the vents. Ensuring clear passage for warm air to circulate makes a substantial improvement in your home’s comfort and energy usage this winter.
Seal Leaks to Prevent Drafts in Your Home
Even minor drafts can put excessive strain on your heating and cooling system. Perform a sweep of your home to spot and seal any air leaks. These are easiest to detect on freezing, windy days that suck the heat out through gaps and cracks. Apply weatherstripping and caulk around doors and windows, and apply spray foam around plumbing, vents and wiring penetrations to stop costly air leaks in their tracks.
Boost Insulation in Your Home
The attic is the most convenient place to add insulation to a home. Additional insulation on the attic floor means decreased heat loss through the ceiling, making it easier for your home heating system to maintain a comfortable temperature. But insulation isn’t only for your attic—you can also insulate pipes, ductwork and electrical outlets on exterior walls to enhance energy efficiency.
Explore Zoning
If your home has multiple levels or wings, you might find advantages from using a zoned HVAC system. This involves putting dampers in the ductwork and installing multiple thermostats that enable you to independently control the temperature in different areas of your home. You may heat the ground floor during the day and the upstairs bedrooms at night, saving energy by only paying to heat chosen sections of your home when you need them.
Choose a Humidifier
Winter air is infamously dry. You could combat this with tabletop humidifiers throughout your living space, but there’s a better way. Use a whole-house humidifier to work alongside your furnace. Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so a whole-house humidifier enhances a more comfortable interior without increasing the thermostat.
Partner with Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts for Winter Prep in Windsor
If you’re looking to boost your home’s winter energy efficiency in Windsor, Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts is ready to support. Our certified technicians offer quick, reliable solutions to all your comfort concerns, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
If you’re not thoroughly pleased with our work, you can rely on us to make it right. Call 226-773-3357 today so the technicians at Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts can make a substantial difference in your life and sense of comfort during the winter months.