HVAC Companies Lafayette | How To Keep Your Heating Costs Low This Winter?
Like most people, you’re probably already dreading the higher heating bills that come along with winter. But you can do a few things to keep your costs down and stay comfortable all season long.
Here are a few tips to help you keep your heating costs low this winter:
Get your furnace serviced.
A well-maintained furnace will operate more efficiently and use less energy, saving you money on your heating bills. But more importantly, a poorly maintained furnace can be very dangerous. Each year, people die from carbon monoxide poisoning and fires caused by furnaces.
That’s why it’s crucial to have your furnace regularly serviced by a qualified technician. And if you have an oil-burning furnace, keeping it in good working order is essential, as oil-fired furnaces pose a greater risk of fire than other types of furnaces.
If unsure how often your furnace should be serviced, check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer. Generally speaking, you should service most furnaces at least once a year.
Install a programmable thermostat.
This will allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, so you’re not heating your home when nobody is there.
You can also set your thermostat to “away” mode when you leave the house, saving you even more energy. And if you have a smart thermostat, you can control it remotely with your smartphone or tablet. So if you forget to set it to “away” mode before you leave, you can do it when you’re already on your way.
There are a few different thermostats, but the most common are manual and programmable thermostats. Manual thermostats are the simplest type – you just set the temperature manually. Programmable thermostats are a bit more advanced and allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day.
Seal any drafts.
Make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed to keep the warm air in and the cold air out. You can use caulk or weather stripping to seal any cracks around your windows and doors.
Another way to keep your home warm is to insulate it. You can add insulation to your walls, attic, and floors to keep the heat in. Adding insulation will also help reduce your energy bills.
If you have a fireplace, make sure to use it wisely. Only burning wood that is dry and seasoned, as wet wood, will create more smoke. Also, open the flue before you start a fire and close it when you’re done to prevent heat from escaping up the chimney.
Remember your heating system. Make sure to have it serviced regularly and change the filters as needed. A well-maintained heating system will run more efficiently and last longer.
Use space heaters wisely.
If you’re only going to be in one room for a prolonged period, consider using a space heater in that room instead of heating your entire home. By heating only the room you’re in, you can save on your energy bill and stay comfortable.
If you have a fireplace, use it! Not only is it a great source of heat, but it also creates a cozy ambiance in your home. Just be sure to open the flue before lighting a fire and close it when you’re done to prevent heat from escaping up the chimney.
If you have central heating, ensure your registers are not blocked by furniture or other objects. This will ensure that the air is appropriately circulated and that your heater works as efficiently as possible. Wrap up in a blanket when you’re chilly instead of turning up the heat. Not only will you save on your energy bill, but you’ll also stay cozy and comfortable.
Layer your clothing.
Instead of turning up the heat, dress warmly and add a few extra layers. This will help conserve energy and reduce your utility bills. You can also take advantage of the sun’s natural warmth by opening curtains and blinds during the day to let in sunlight. At night, close them to help keep heat from escaping.
You can also save energy by using a ceiling fan with your heating system. By circulating the warm air in your home, you can feel comfortable at a lower temperature, which will help reduce energy use.
Following these tips, you can keep your heating costs low this winter and stay toasty all season long. If you have any questions about your heating system or how to reduce your energy costs, contact Acadiana Comfort Systems. We’re a leading HVAC company in Lafayette, LA, and we’re here to help you stay comfortable all year.