With utility costs increasing every year, most homeowners find that heating expenses make up a significant percentage of their bills. It’s important to keep your living spaces warm and cozy for family and friends. The good news is, there are simple adjustments you can make to reduce heating costs at home. Let’s look at practical tips to help you save energy and money.
Replace the Furnace Filters to Reduce Heating Costs
Along with having regular check-ups of the furnace, make sure to replace your HVAC filters as recommended by the manufacturer. Furnace filters become clogged with debris, forcing the heat pump to work harder to circulate air in your home and resulting in higher heating costs.
Changing the filter is a quick and easy job. The hardest part is remembering to do it. Set a reminder on your calendar or on your phone. For convenience, purchase the filters in a multi-pack so you always have an extra when it’s time for a replacement. A clean filter will not only improve the air quality in your home but will also help you reduce heating costs.
Program the Thermostat
This is one of the easiest ways to lower your energy bills. Turn down the thermostat when you are not home and the house is empty. You can also lower the temperature a few degrees when sleeping because you’ll be warm under the blankets.
Remembering to lower your thermostat regularly can get tedious. Instead, install a programmable thermostat. It will adjust the temperature automatically, and you can schedule it according to your preferences. Set it to lower temperatures when everyone is away and then raise the temperature 15-30 minutes before people arrive home.
Use the Sun to Help Reduce Heating Costs
During the day, open your blinds, shades, or curtains and let the sunlight in. The sun provides radiant heat and will help keep your house warm. Pay attention to areas sunlight is coming in and trim shrubs or trees that block the sun from your home.
Close your blinds and curtains at night. This will help insulate the windows after dark and your furnace won’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature indoors.
Stop Air Leaks by Sealing Gaps
To help reduce heating costs, check for areas around doors and windows that allow cold air into your home. Look for cracks and gaps around the frames and beneath the door. If the weatherstripping around your windows is old, remove it and install new weatherstripping.
Purchase and apply weatherstripping or silicone caulk on the areas that need to be sealed. Stopping air leaks throughout your home will keep your living spaces warm and help you save money on utility bills.
Battle Born Inspections provides home inspection services in northern Nevada, including Reno, Lake Tahoe, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request an appointment.