As it gets colder outside, your first reflex is probably to turn up the thermostat for added warmth. Unfortunately, the harder your HVAC system has to work, the more expensive your heating bills will be.
If you want to know how to save money on your heating bills, you’ve come to the right place! Keep on reading to learn how you can save on your heating bills this fall and winter.
Every Degree Matters
Did you know that each degree you raise or lower your thermostat can affect your power costs by 3 to 5%? According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, the majority of people are most comfortable in temperatures between 73 and 79 degrees. While you might not even be able to feel the difference between 73 and 79 degrees, your power bills can.
During the cold months, experiment with your thermostat to find out the lowest temperature at which you and your family can remain comfortable. Simply lowering the temperature in your home by a few degrees can add up to a lot of savings.
Find Alternative Ways to Stay Warm
A great way to keep your heating bills low is to find alternative ways to stay warm. Try wearing thick socks, warm sweatpants, and a cozy sweater so you can stay comfy and cozy even if the furnace isn’t on. Bundling up is just one of the many ways to stay comfortable. Consider things like burning logs in the fireplace, drinking a mug of hot chocolate or coffee, or leaving the oven door cracked after cooking to let the excess heat warm your home. All of these things can help you feel warm when you don’t want to turn the thermostat up.
Have Your Air Ducts Tested
If you have leaky air ducts in your HVAC system, you could be losing up to 40% of your furnace’s heat before it ever reaches the rooms you’re hoping to heat. Having poorly sealed air ducts is a major waste of energy which ultimately leads to higher heating bills and can even decrease the air quality in your home. If you are noticing higher heating bills than normal, definitely consider having your air ducts tested to make sure your HVAC system is working at full efficiency.
Program Your Thermostat
If you just have to have your furnace blasting hot air whenever you’re home, consider programming your thermostat. You can have a lower temperature set for when you and your family are away, and then have it automatically start warming the house later in the day so it will be the perfect temperature when you arrive back home. Installing a smart thermostat like the Google Nest even allows you to change temperatures using your smartphone. Nest can also learn your habits and automatically adjust to the optimal temperature for each part of the day!
Nobody wants to spend more than they have to on their heating bills. Hopefully, you can use the tips in this article to save yourself money this winter season!
If you’re looking to install a smart thermostat or new HVAC system, or you simply need HVAC system repairs, Mountain Heating and Cooling has certified expert technicians to help you out! We can also perform air duct testing to ensure you’re not wasting any heat to a leak. Just give us a call or contact us online today to get started!