If your home is like most, you rely on a heating system to keep the interior comfortable during the colder months. But as temperatures drop and energy costs rise, your heating bill can become quite a shock.
Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to offset the cost of heat without sacrificing comfort. In this article, we’ll share 10 tips to help you save money on your heating bill this winter.
Table of Contents
1. Get your heating system serviced regularly
A well-maintained heating system will operate more efficiently and use less energy, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. Ensure to have your unit serviced by an experienced professional at least once a year, and more often if it’s showing signs of wear. When you call a professional for heating repair in Baytown, TX, ask about energy-saving options that may be available for your system.
2. Install a programmable thermostat
Programmable thermostats can save you money by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home according to a schedule you set. For example, you can set the temperature to be lower when you’re away or asleep and higher when you’re home and awake. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, properly used programmable thermostats can save you about $180 per year in energy costs.
3. Keep your heating vents clear
Blocked or obstructed heating vents can cause your system to work harder than necessary to heat your home, which wastes energy and drives up your utility bills. Be sure to keep furniture, rugs, and other items at least three feet away from vents to ensure proper airflow.
4. Use ceiling fans wisely
Ceiling fans can help circulate heat throughout your home, making it feel warmer without raising the temperature on your thermostat. When using ceiling fans, be sure to set them to rotate clockwise so they push warm air down from the ceiling. And remember to turn them off when you leave the room – running a ceiling fan uses energy and will add to your bill.
5. Seal leaks around doors and windows
Drafty doors and windows can let cold air into your home, making it harder for your heating system to do its job. To help prevent drafts, caulk, or weather-strip gaps around doors and windows. You can also add plastic film to windows to create an extra barrier against the cold.
6. Add insulation to your home
Insulation helps keep heat from escaping your home, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. If your home is more than 20 years old, it may be time to add more insulation. Attic insulation is a good place to start – according to the U.S. Department of Energy, attic insulation can save you up to 10% on your heating and cooling costs.
7. Use a space heater wisely
If you need to supplement your heating system with a space heater, be sure to use it wisely. First, choose a model that’s the right size for the room you’re trying to heat. Second, look for a space heater with an automatic shut-off feature so it won’t overheat if left on too long. And finally, don’t use a space heater to heat an entire room – they’re most effective when used to supplement the heat in a small area.
8. Let the sun help heat your home
During the day, open curtains or blinds on south-facing windows to let the sun’s rays help heat home. At night, close them back up to help insulate against the cold.
9. Reduce heat loss through your chimney
If you have a fireplace, be sure to close the flue when it’s not in use. Leaving the flue open is like leaving a window open – it allows heat to escape and cold air to come in, making your home harder to heat.
10. Invest in energy-efficient appliances
When it’s time to replace an old appliance, look for an energy-efficient one. Energy-efficient appliances use less energy, which can lead to significant savings on your utility bills. Look for the ENERGY STAR® label when shopping for new appliances.
By following these tips, you can save money on your energy bills and keep your home comfortable all winter long. And if you’re ever in need of heating repair or heating installation services in Deer Park, TX, be sure to call Ainsworth & Co. Our team of certified HVAC technicians is always here to help. Contact Ainsworth & Co. at 281-837-8454 to schedule an appointment.
