How to Save on Heating Costs in the Winter

Many homeowners get their energy bill each month and simply send in a check without thinking twice about the amount. When a family likes having a warm and comfortable house, it’s easy to just set the thermostat to 72 degrees or higher and not think about it again until spring and the weather is warm enough to either not use the heating system at all, or it’s time for air conditioning. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that saving energy, and money, doesn’t have to mean putting up with a cold and uncomfortable home set to 65 degrees. There are several ways that heat is leaving your home, causing the heating system to work harder than it has to, and therefore increasing your energy bill. So, how can you save money this winter? The technicians at All Air Heating & Cooling have years of experience conducting heating repairs, installations, and maintenance visits to ensure that homes and their heating systems are efficient as possible and are working as they should. If you want us to take a look at your heating system, give us a call today and we’ll make sure that each component of the system is functioning properly, and we can also look at your whole home to make sure that the house itself is efficient. How Can Homeowners Reduce Heating Costs in Winter? Use the Sun Everyone loves natural light, right? On bright, sunny days in Fredericksburg, open up any window coverings and let in all the natural light, and heat, that you can. This is especially beneficial if you have south-facing windows — the sun is lower in the sky during the winter and can provide even more heat. At night, when the sun goes down, lower shades or close the drapes to keep all of the heat inside. Inspect the Windows If you have an older home, with older windows, you may be losing a significant amount of heat through gaps in the windows. And the good thing about this step is that it doesn’t take a heating repair specialist to tell you if heating is being lost here — all you have to do is put your hand up against the window sill, where the window closes. If you feel a cold draft, you’re losing heat. You can fix this by upgrading your windows, or if you don’t want to spend the money, you can winterize the windows with plastic insulation. Turn on the Ceiling Fan This might sound counterintuitive, but because hot air rises, there’s warmth resting above your head. When the ceiling fan is spinning in a counter-clockwise direction, it can move that warm air around, making the room feel warmer. Keep the fan at a low setting and it won’t feel cool. Turn the Heat Down at Night If you can stand waking up to a cooler home, this can save you between 5 and 10 percent on your heating bill. Turning the temperature down 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours can make a big difference. Switch the sheets out on your bed for flannel and keep a cozy pair of slippers by your bed and you’re wallet will thank you. Schedule Heating Maintenance When the heating system is clean, the air filter is clean, and the vents aren’t blocked (all things that a heating technician will check during a routine visit), the system will work more efficiently, saving you money. Changing the air filter is another small step that can make a big difference. Switch out the filter at least every two to three months, but more frequently if you have pets. Use a Humidifier When there is moisture in the air, it will hold heat better and it feels warmer. With a humidifier in the rooms you use most, you can turn the temperature down and still feel warm and comfortable. Have the Insulation Inspected This is another tip if you have an older home with less efficient insulation in the walls and attic. Polyurethane spray foam was gaining popularity in homes during the late 1970s and early 1980s, so if your home was built before then, there’s a good chance that the insulation is of far less quality, causing your home to lose heat. The attic is possibly the easiest place to add insulation, or better quality insulation. If you don’t want to go that far, you can simply use weather stripping for doors and windows. Preventing heat loss in your home, and saving money on your utility bill doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive — sometimes all it takes is changing out the air filter and getting the heating system inspected by a professional HVAC company. If you’re not sure what should be done in your home, contact All Air Heating & Cooling and we will discuss some options that will fit your needs and budget. We provide heating repair, installation, and maintenance services in Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and the surrounding areas. When you need help with your heating system, you can trust the experts at All Air.

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