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10 tips to lower winter heating costs
The winter chill hits your home, so you turn on the heater or furnace – but you find it doesn't heat properly. Avoid this inconvenience by maintaining your heating system now – before it breaks down – and reduce your energy bill at the same time.
"More than half the energy used at home can be used by the heating and air conditioning system," said Gary Williams, of Aire Serv of Comfort Zone franchise in Aldie. "Regular maintenance is the best way to cut costs and keep your heating system working at maximum efficiency."
To prevent unwanted costs and keep your heating system in excellent condition this winter, follow these tips:
1. Look for drafty windows and door frames. Check the caulking and add new weather stripping as necessary – air leaks can cause loss of heat, energy and money.
2. Identify problems early with a seasonal check-up by your heating and cooling contractor. Dirt and neglect are the main cause for heating system failures.
3. Open your south-facing window blinds and curtains to let the sun in and reduce the load on your heating system. Then close them at night to reduce the winter chill.
4. Check filters monthly and replace as necessary.
5. Insulate the air ducts. Proper insulation will prevent the heated air from escaping into unheated spaces such as the attic or crawlspace.
6. Keep heat-generated appliances like TVs and computer equipment away from thermostats.
7. Reverse ceiling fans. By switching the blades to the clockwise direction, warmer air that's accumulated near the ceiling will be pushed back down.
Other tips
1. Install a programmable thermostat. This "smart thermostat" can turn on the heater to the desired set point one hour before you arrive, avoiding the need to run the system all day.
2. Optimize your heating system's air flow. A contractor can test air flow and make adjustments for optimal performance, which increases comfort levels while reducing utility bills.
3. If your heater or furnace is outdated, you’ll save money by upgrading. An Energy Star-rated gas furnace can be 15 percent more efficient than older models and reduce the amount of greenhouse gases emitted.
Established in 1992, Aire Serv is a franchise, heating, ventilation and air conditioning organization. For more information, visit AireServ.com.
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