Your house is probably among your most precious investments. It assists you financially through equity-building, and it’s a space to raise your family and create memorable moments, too. This time of year, you may also face higher utility bills.
As a consequence, finding tactics to lower your heating bill in Atlanta without giving up comfort can feel difficult.
When it comes to energy efficiency, homes resemble vehicles. Some guzzle energy while others sip it gradually. Regardless of what type of residence you have, there are steps to halt the cold this winter. The Experts are here with seven tips to help you stay comfortable without going over budget.
1. Change Your Air Filter
It’s the most economical solution out there. It’s also the best approach to keep your heater running optimally during the winter.
The kind of filter and seasonal determinants affect how frequently you should put in a new one. High allergen counts, pets and home size might also affect its life span. Typically, fiberglass filters should be swapped every month. Pleated models made with thicker material may last three months or longer.
“It’s really the big thing folks overlook,” 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 house. A clogged filter makes your furnace work harder.”
2. Schedule Regular HVAC Service
It’s normal to have a tech visit your residence in the spring for AC service. That way, your air conditioner is prepared for the heat.
But don’t overlook scheduling an appointment for furnace service before the winter too.
Among other steps, an inspection commonly involves:
- Double-checking thermostat settings
- Cleaning and greasing internal components
- Taking a look at system shutdown and startup processes
Maintenance helps lower the probability of dealing with 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 avoided with standard service.
3. Inspect Windows and Doors for Cracks
Windows and doors are a main entry point for chilly air. Sealing window and door frames is an inexpensive method to help keep cold air outside.
Here’s one assessment that Hughes advises.
Shut a door. Is any light visible? If so, it’s not totally sealed. Changes or weather-stripping could be needed.
If your house has single-pane windows, you may want to think over a dual-pane upgrade.
Some homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic wrap.
It’s not a bad solution, but dual-pane windows provide enhanced insulation for keeping cold air outside.
When you add 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 recommends against leaving it going for too long.
The same applies to for the dryer. Don’t allow it to work after your clothes are dry.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan expels hot air out and pulls in cold air. Using these appliances all the time will make your heater to run more often to handle the avoidable chill.
5. Examine Your House’s Edges for Holes
Check your home’s exterior. This is the boundary that shields your residence from the weather. If your home has a basement, check for moving cobwebs or chilly air leaking in around the sides.
Polyurethane sealers and other solutions can be purchased to fix basement walls allowing air into your home. Another cost-effective move is to invest foam seals for fixture bases, for example ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re quick to install and are fantastic at keeping the cold air out in the winter.
6. Check Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth making sure that you have adequate insulation levels
Hughes advises looking at the ENERGY STAR® zone map to determine the suitable R-value for your residence’s walls and attic space. This recommendation is formulated on the geographic area where you live.
7. Consider Our Advantage Program™
Winter can be trying for homeowners with old equipment.
If your furnace is not working right or needing extensive service, there’s a decent chance you’re not set to spend thousands on a modern system.
That’s why we have our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you prevent costly fixes through a small monthly fee.
We’ll also install an energy-saving system in your house. Plus our Expert technicians will overhaul and maintain it for you without any added out-of-pocket fee
Book an Appointment with Us Now
Make your Atlanta home more energy efficient with pro help from Service Experts.
For more specifics about our Advantage Program or to request an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 678-235-9699 or contact us online now.