Every year, homeowners around the country spend a significant portion of their budgets on winter heating expenses. When you have high heating bills, look for effective ways to make them more affordable. Reduce heating costs in your home and maximize your energy savings with these helpful tips.
Don’t Block the Flow of Heat
One of the simplest ways to lower heating costs won’t cost you a dime. Check the area in front of your HVAC vents to make sure nothing is blocking the flow of air. It may be necessary to move furniture around to allow the vents to work more effectively.
It could be possible that you have arranged your room or set things down without realizing this will prevent heated air from moving into the room and circulating. Make sure that furniture and other belongings are at least 10 inches from vents.
Keep the Filter Clean to Reduce Heating Costs
Set a reminder to change your HVAC filter regularly. The money you invest in getting new filters every quarter or every month is reflected in lower heating costs.
Dirty filters are difficult for the furnace to push air through, so your heating system will have to work harder to heat the space, costing you more energy. If you experience allergies, have pets, or live in an area with pollution, change the HVAC filter once a month to improve air quality.
Have an Energy Assessment
Particularly in older homes, many of the primary sources of energy loss may be difficult to notice.
Ask your power company if they offer energy inspections. A professional can visit your property and pinpoint specific areas where cold air is flowing in and warm air is escaping. Small gaps and cracks around plumbing, windows, and doors can contribute to significant energy loss and drive up heating costs.
Reduce Heating Costs With a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a great tool to help you save money. It can be set to automatically adjust the temperature whether you’re at home or away. You can program it to maintain a lower temperature at night while you are sleeping and then turn the heat on just before you wake up. Your home will be warm and cozy in the morning, but you’ll be able to reduce the power bill.
Use the Sun to Warm Your Home
Winter has shorter days with less sunlight, but you can still harness the rays of the sun to warm your home. When the sun is shining, open the drapes and blinds to allow sunlight into your home. This natural radiant heat can make a surprising difference in how warm your home is during the day. At night, close the blinds and drapes to better insulate the windows and keep the home warm.
Carolina HomePro Inspections offers home inspection services in Charlotte, NC, and the Rock Hill area of South Carolina. Contact us to schedule an appointment.