Seven Ways to Save on Your Heating Bills
Save Money on your Heating Bills
At Addison Smith, our technicians tackle gas furnace repairs and electric furnace repairs every day. We are in all kinds of homes in the Douglasville area and we inspect furnaces, ductwork, thermostats and more. We see plenty of ways homeowners can improve their home’s efficiency we put together a list of easy ways to help you save money on your heating bills.
Install Storm Doors and Windows
A storm window is an inexpensive update that is easy to install. Multiple windows can reduce energy costs by 12 to 33 percent. This is possible because each storm window has an ultra-slim metal coating, which reflects heat back into the space. Storm doors stop cold air from entering the home. When installed properly, energy efficiency can increase by 45 percent.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat adjusts the temperature automatically according to a schedule. However, to gain the most energy savings, the thermostat must be adjusted to the lowest temperature whenever the home is empty. According to the Energy Star website, proper use of a programmable thermostat (using the four pre-programmed settings) can save the average homeowner about $180 every year in energy costs.
Seal Leaks and Ducts
If a home has air leaks, a lot of energy will be wasted. As a result, monthly heating costs will increase. Caulk and seal openings or cracks that are found around window frames and doors. Weather-stripping is ideal for movable components, such as windows and doors. Seal any leaky air ducts to prevent energy loss especially in unconditioned areas like basements.
Tune Up the Furnace
A furnace tune-up improves performance. When a gas furnace or electric furnace is running more efficiently, it uses less energy and decreases energy bills. A furnace tune-up will also increase safety in your Douglasville home.
Replace the Furnace Filter
When a furnace filter clogs, the components work harder to heat the home. By changing the filter regularly, the energy bill will decrease by five to 15 percent. If you need help changing the filter, call a furnace repair service specialist.
Add Insulation in the Attic
Poorly insulated attics waste tons of energy. Simply adding insulation to your attic can reduce this energy loss. Also, seal various access points including the attic hatch and the knee-wall door.
Use Window Treatments
Although window treatments are decorative, they can lower energy costs dramatically during the winter. When drawn during cold weather, most drapes can reduce heat loss up to 10%. Therefore, in winter, you should close all drapes at night, as well as drapes that don’t receive sunlight during the day. To reduce heat exchange or convection, draperies should be hung as close to windows as possible. Also let them fall onto a window sill.
Helping your system to run more efficiently will reduce your number of repair calls and increase the lifespan of your furnace and air conditioner. To learn more about other ways to reduce heating costs, or if you need more information about repairing or replacing your furnace or air conditioner, contact Addison Smith Heating, Cooling and Plumbing at 770-809-3200.