If you haven’t noticed lately, the cost of living is skyrocketing. From gas prices to food, finding a way to cut costs is a welcome thing as we head into fall and the holiday season. As we collectively sigh in relief as we put the air conditioning away for the cold weather months, we still know we will inevitably be cranking up the heat – and once again, the energy costs. These are just a few ways to reduce your energy costs this fall into winter from the best HVAC company in Charleston.
Set It and Don’t Forget It
If you have a digital thermostat, how well are you keeping up with it? As we roll into the cold weather season, you might want to adjust the highs and lows to accommodate the changing temperatures. During the winter, you might be just fine leaving the house temps at 68; after all, you will be wearing more clothes to cover up. Statistics tell us that you can save two to three percent on heating costs if you set your thermostat just one degree cooler. That might not seem like a lot, but every little bit helps!
Weatherproofing is a MUST
One of the biggest ways to decrease your energy consumption is by weatherproofing windows and doors, especially if you are in an older home. As your home’s structure settles, you probably have larger gaps around the window and the door jambs. Do-it-yourself centers have a ton of different methods for weatherproofing your home that are very inexpensive, but will save you a whole lot overall.
Use Natural Radiant Light
During the summer, you want to make sure to keep your blinds closed to keep the sun out, but during the winter, open them wide to let radiant heat inside. If you time it well and open window coverings in the morning and shut them at night, you can maximize the sun’s ability to heat and for window coverings to keep the windows protected from drafts at night. If you want to get really fancy, get automated blinds, and then you never have to worry about opening and closing them!
Regular Maintenance Will Increase Energy Efficiency
Your heating and air conditioning can only run optimally when they are properly maintained. If you go without regular maintenance, oils will likely start to affect the HVAC’s ability to run, and over time, that will not only decrease energy efficiency, it can lead to having to replace your units early due to excess wear and tear.
Fireplace It Up
In the South, most homes have traditionally been heated via fireplace, and the same holds true today. If you have fireplaces, use them to heat the rooms you are in and let your heating get a break. If you all huddle together as a family, not only will you enjoy time together; you can also cut your energy consumption and reduce costs.
Replace Your Air Filters
Air filters are your first line of defense against fine particles and allergens making their way into your HVAC system. They can only do their job if they’re replaced regularly. If your filters get caked with dirt and debris, your HVAC system will have to work harder, which means increased energy consumption. It also means excess wear and tear on your furnace throughout the year. As we switch the air conditioning to heating, now is the perfect time to replace the filters!
As the cost of living continues to increase and the holidays are on their way, any way to save on your monthly costs is probably welcome. Try these tips to cut your fall energy bill from the best HVAC company in Charleston, 1st Choice. If you haven’t scheduled your regular maintenance for the fall, do so now!