Your residence is probably at the top of the list of your most prized investments. It supports you financially through improving equity, and it’s a place to raise your family and create memories, too. During the winter, you might also be dealing with increased energy expenses.
Consequently, finding methods to lower your heating bill in Tempe without compromising comfort can appear challenging.
When it comes to energy efficiency, homes are similar to cars. Some guzzle energy while others use it steadily. Regardless of what sort of house you have, there are methods to stop the discomfort this winter. The Experts are here with seven ideas to keep your family comfortable without going over budget.
1. Get a New Your Air Filter
It’s the most economical solution that exists. It’s also the best approach to keep your heater running smoothly throughout the winter.
The kind of filter and seasonal elements influence how often you should put in a new one. High allergen counts, pets and home size can also influence its longevity. In most cases, inexpensive filters should be changed monthly. Pleated models made with better material may work for three months or longer.
“It’s really the major thing people ignore,” 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 clogged filter makes your furnace work harder.”
2. Schedule Annual HVAC Service
It’s common to have an Expert come by your home in the spring for AC service. That way, your unit is prepped for the heat.
But don’t forget to schedule an appointment for furnace service before it snows too.
Among other actions, an inspection commonly includes:
- Examining thermostat settings
- Cleaning and greasing internal pieces
- Inspecting system shutdown and startup controls
Regular service helps decrease the odds of facing an emergency repair in the middle of a cold snap. Some reports have shown as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been stopped with regular maintenance.
3. Inspect Windows and Doors for Leaks
Windows and doors are a central entry point for cold air. Sealing window and door frames is an practical method to help keep cold air where it belongs.
Here’s one assessment that Hughes advises.
Shut a door. Do you notice any light? If that’s what’s happening, it’s not totally sealed. Changes or weather-stripping could be required.
If your residence has single-pane windows, you may want to think about a dual-pane upgrade.
Some homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic wrap.
It’s not a bad move, but dual-pane windows provide much better insulation for keeping cold air where it belongs.
When you install double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or better.
4. Limit Use of Vented Appliances
If you require the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes advises against leaving it running for a long time.
The same applies to for the dryer. Don’t let it to run after your clothes are ready.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan pulls out warm air away from your home and increases cold air. Operating these appliances continuously will make your HVAC system to use more energy to handle the preventable chill.
5. Examine Your Residence’s Edges for Leaks
Examine your residence’s exterior. This is the barrier that shields your house from the elements. If there’s a basement, check for blowing cobwebs or cool air trickling in near the sides.
Polyurethane products and other solutions can be used to fix basement walls leaking air into your house. Another economical tip is to invest foam seals for fixture bottoms, for example ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re simple to use and are awesome at blocking cold air in the winter.
6. Evaluate Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth confirming that you have thick enough insulation levels
Hughes recommends looking at the ENERGY STAR® zone map to find the appropriate R-value for your home’s walls and attic space. This suggestion is formulated on the geographic area where your home is.
7. Consider Our Advantage Program™
Winter can be tough for homeowners with old equipment.
If your furnace is failing or needing expensive service, there’s a reasonable chance you’re not ready to spend thousands on an updated system.
That’s why we provide our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you avoid pricey repairs through a modest monthly fee.
We’ll also put in an energy-saving system in your house. Plus our professional techs will fix and tune it up for you without any added out-of-pocket cost
Schedule an Appointment with Us Today
Make your Tempe house more energy efficient with professional help from Service Experts.
For more details about our Advantage Program or to schedule an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 602-906-0111 or contact us online right away.