Your residence is likely one of your most prized investments. It assists you financially through building equity, and it’s a place to enjoy with your family and make memories, too. This time of year, you might also be experiencing growing heating expenses.
As a result, finding ways to lower your heating bill in East Syracuse without compromising comfort can seem difficult.
As far as energy efficiency, homes are like vehicles. Some guzzle energy while others use it slowly. Regardless of what kind of residence you have, there are steps to end the chill this winter. The Experts are here with seven tips to help you stay comfortable without driving up your energy bill.
1. Replace Your Your Air Filter
It’s the most economical suggestion there is. It’s also the best way to keep your heating system operating optimally during the winter.
The type of filter and seasonal elements influence how often you should put in a new one. Increased allergen counts, pets and residence size might also influence its life span. Typically, inexpensive filters should be replaced every month. Pleated styles made with higher-quality material could make it three months or longer.
“It’s really the major thing people forget about,” said Jim Hughes, senior manager of education and training at Service Experts. “The more overloaded the filter is, the less air is able to move through it and actually warm the residence. A dirty filter makes your heating system work harder.”
2. Schedule Annual HVAC Service
It’s normal to have a tech come to your residence in the spring for AC service. That way, your air conditioner is ready for the summer.
But don’t overlook scheduling an appointment for furnace service before it snows too.
Among other steps, an inspection typically includes:
- Examining thermostat settings
- Cleaning and oiling internal pieces
- Taking a look at system shutdown and startup processes
Regular service helps decrease the chance of facing an emergency repair in the middle of a blizzard. Some reports have shown as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been prevented with regular tune-ups.
3. Inspect Windows and Doors for Cracks
Windows and doors are a main entry point for chilly air. Sealing window and door frames is an cost effective way to help keep chilly air outside.
Here’s one assessment that Hughes suggests.
Shut a door. Is any light visible? If that’s the case, it’s not entirely sealed. Modifications or weather-stripping may be needed.
If your house has single-pane windows, you should consider a dual-pane option.
Many homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting.
It’s not a bad solution, but dual-pane windows provide much better insulation for keeping cold air out.
When you add double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or better.
4. Limit Use of Vented Appliances
If you need the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes suggests against leaving it on for too long.
The same applies to for the dryer. Don’t let it to operate after your clothes are done.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan expels hot air outside and pulls in cold air. Running these appliances continuously will force your heater to work harder to battle the preventable chill.
5. Examine Your Home’s Perimeter for Holes
Examine your home’s exterior. This is the area that protects your home from the outside. If your home has a basement, check for fluttering cobwebs or cool air leaking in around the edges.
Polyurethane sealers and other solutions can be purchased to fix basement walls letting air into your home. Another cost-effective move is to invest foam seals for fixture bases, such as ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re simple to put in and are awesome at keeping the cold air out in the winter.
6. Measure Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth ensuring that you have thick enough insulation levels
Hughes advises checking the ENERGY STAR® zone map to determine the appropriate R-value for your residence’s walls and attic space. This suggestion is formulated on the geographic spot where you’re located.
7. Sign Up for Our Advantage Program™
Winter can be rough for homeowners with old systems.
If your furnace is malfunctioning or in need of costly service, there’s a good chance you’re not ready to spend thousands on a new system.
That’s why we offer our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you avoid expensive repairs through a small monthly fee.
We’ll also install an energy-efficient system in your residence. Plus our professional techs will fix and maintain it for you without any additional out-of-pocket cost
Schedule an Appointment with Us Right Away
Make your East Syracuse house more energy efficient with professional assistance from Service Experts.
For more details about our Advantage Program or to request an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 315-313-6531 or contact us online now.