Your residence is probably among your most precious investments. It helps you financially through boosting equity, and it’s an area to watch your family grow and develop moments you’ll remember, too. During the winter, you could also face increased utility costs.
Consequently, finding ways to lower your heating bill in Boise without giving up comfort can feel harder than it needs to be.
When it comes to energy efficiency, homes are like cars. Some guzzle energy while others use it slowly. Regardless of what sort of residence you live in, there are ways to block the cold this winter. The Experts are here with seven suggestions to keep you comfortable without driving up your energy bill.
1. Replace Your Your Air Filter
It’s the most cost-effective recommendation that exists. It’s also the best method to keep your heating system running optimally throughout the winter.
The model of filter and seasonal factors influence how often you should replace it. Soaring allergen counts, pets and home size might also influence its life span. Typically, fiberglass filters should be swapped monthly. Pleated ones made with denser material may last three months or longer.
“It’s really the big thing folks forget about,” said Jim Hughes, senior manager of education and training at Service Experts. “The more full the filter is, the less air is able to move through it and actually warm the home. A dirty filter makes your heating system work harder.”
2. Schedule Routine HVAC Service
It’s common to have a tech stop by your home in the spring for AC service. That way, your unit is prepared for the warm weather.
But don’t overlook scheduling an appointment for furnace service before it snows too.
Among other procedures, an inspection typically covers:
- Double-checking thermostat settings
- Cleaning and greasing internal pieces
- Taking a look at system shutdown and startup procedures
Regular service helps lessen the probability of handling an emergency repair in the middle of winter. Some reports have shown as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been prevented with regular tune-ups.
3. Check Windows and Doors for Leaks
Windows and doors are a central entry point for chilly air. Caulking window and door frames is an economical approach to help keep frigid air where it belongs.
Here’s one test that Hughes advises.
Shut a door. Can you see any light? If so, it’s not totally sealed. Changes or weather-stripping may be required.
If your residence has single-pane windows, you should think about a dual-pane improvement.
Many homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting.
It’s not a bad idea, but dual-pane windows provide enhanced insulation for keeping cool air outside.
When you switch to double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or higher.
4. Regulate Use of Vented Appliances
If you require the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes advises against leaving it going for a long time.
The same applies to for the dryer. Don’t allow it to run after your clothes are ready.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan expels hot air outside and increases cold air. Running these appliances all the time will make your heater to work harder to manage the unnecessary chill.
5. Look at Your Home’s Edges for Cracks
Examine your home’s building envelope. This is the barrier that protects your home from the elements. If there’s a basement, be on the lookout for fluttering cobwebs or cold coming in near the edges.
Polyurethane sealant and other solutions can be bought to mend basement walls letting air into your residence. Another cost-effective idea is to add foam seals for fixture bottoms, like ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re easy to put in and are great at stopping cold air in the winter.
6. Check Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth confirming that you have thick enough insulation levels
Hughes advises looking at the ENERGY STAR® zone map to determine the suitable R-value for your house’s walls and attic space. This value is based on the geographic area where your home is.
7. Consider Our Advantage Program™
Winter may be trying for homeowners with underperforming systems.
If your furnace is malfunctioning or requiring extensive repair, there’s a good chance you’re not prepared to spend thousands on a new system.
That’s why we have our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you avoid expensive fixes through a small monthly fee.
We’ll also put in an energy-efficient system in your house. Plus our professional techs will fix and service it for you without any extra out-of-pocket fee
Schedule an Appointment with Us Today
Make your Boise residence more energy efficient with professional support from Service Experts.
For more details about our Advantage Program or to book an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 208-488-4892 or contact us online right away.