The average household spends around $1,400 a year on energy bills. Even in Florida, the winter can be cold at times. Are you looking to stay cozy without a high energy bill? With more people staying home this year, you may notice your bills going up. If you want to stay warm but not break the bank, check out these winter energy saving tips on how to save money on heat.
Now is the time to change your furnace filter if you haven't already. By changing out dirty filters, you ensure your equipment is working efficiently, and not harder than it needs to be. You should also consider an inspection to make sure your furnace is working properly and perform regular maintenance.
If your furnace is working harder than it should, your bills will increase.
One of the biggest ways you can save money is by making sure the warm air stays inside. You can lose up to a third of your heat through doors and windows. Air can get out through gaps and cracks in other areas such as outlets, attic hatches, and baseboards.
Seal these openings, along with your doors and windows, with caulk and weather stripping. Hold your hand over these areas to see if you feel cold air. If you do, it's time to get rid of the draft.
You should also close curtains at night to help insulate your windows.
Do you wonder what your average house temperature in winter should be? The U.S. Department of Energy recommends 68 degrees. If that is too cold for you, you can find other ways to lower your heating bills.
Try lowering your thermostat by about 10 degrees while you sleep at night or if you are away for a long period of time. You can get a smart thermostat that can be programmed, so you don't even have to adjust it.
You also want to make sure your thermostat is in the right spot for optimal performance. This means it should not be in direct sunlight or near a drafty area. You don't want anything to throw off the temperature, so choose a wall with natural air currents.
You can use fans to circulate air. Hot air rises. Set your ceiling fans in reverse to bring the warm air to your floor level.
You also want to make sure all your radiators and vents are clear. Make sure there is nothing in front of these, so they can circulate the air freely in your home—and put less strain on the furnace.
You don't have to break the bank to stay warm this winter. Use these winter energy saving tips to keep your home cozy.
If you would like to schedule maintenance or need service, Sun Air Services offers a comprehensive HVAC maintenance and repair program. We have more than 30 years of experience to make sure your system is running strong.
Contact us today for help staying warm this winter.