Many of us see higher energy bills in the winter. While you could install a new, more efficient heating system, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy comfortable living spaces. Here are some clever ways to reduce your heating costs without spending a fortune. Let’s look at a few of them.
Improve Your Home’s Insulation
Air leaks and drafts caused by poor insulation are the most common issues that make a home difficult to heat. Start by installing new weatherstripping to properly seal doors and windows. Walls without sufficient insulation can be made more energy-efficient with blown insulation. And in the attic, add fiberglass blanket insulation to help keep heat from escaping.
Reduce Costs by Maintaining Your Heating System
One of the least expensive ways to reduce heating costs during the winter months is by having your home’s furnace serviced once a year. The price is minimal compared to what running a poorly maintained system will cost you. The technician will inspect the unit for faults, clean it properly, and do whatever maintenance is needed.
As the homeowner, you can help maintain the heating system by replacing the filter every 30 to 90 days, as recommended by the manufacturer. A clean filter allows the system to run efficiently and boosts indoor air quality.
Use the Heat of the Sun
Most homes don’t get as much sunlight during the shorter days of winter as they do during the rest of the year. However, you can use the sunlight you get to help warm your house.
Open the curtains, blinds, and shades when the sun is shining outside. This can increase your home’s temperature by a few degrees and help reduce heating costs. Close the curtains in the evening to add a layer of insulation over your windows.
Lower the Thermostat’s Setting
You are unlikely to notice a major difference if you turn down your thermostat by a couple of degrees. But this simple step will save you between 5 and 10 percent on heating costs. It’s a good option when everyone is sleeping or away from the house.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans to Reduce Heating Costs
If there are ceiling fans in your home, use them to help heat your home more efficiently. Most ceiling fans have a reverse switch that changes the direction of the fan blades. In the winter, set your ceiling fan to rotate in a clockwise direction and run it on the lowest setting. This will push the warm air that has risen to the ceiling back down into the room.
Buyer’s Edge, LLC provides home inspection services in western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina. Contact us to request an appointment.