Your residence is likely at the top of the list of your most treasured investments. It helps you financially through building equity, and it’s a space to enjoy with your family and develop memorable moments, too. During the winter, you might also be dealing with growing utility costs.
Consequently, finding ways to lower your heating bill in Denver without giving up comfort can appear challenging.
When it comes to energy efficiency, houses are similar to vehicles. Some require a lot of energy while others use it gradually. Regardless of what type of home you own, there are methods to block the cold this winter. The Experts are here with seven tips to keep your family comfy without driving up your energy bill.
1. Change Your Air Filter
It’s the most economical suggestion that exists. It’s also the best way to keep your furnace operating optimally during the winter.
The model of filter and seasonal elements affect how frequently you should get a new one. High allergen counts, pets and home size can also impact its durability. Generally, inexpensive filters should be swapped monthly. Pleated models made with better material might make it three months or longer.
“It’s really the big thing folks forget about,” 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 heat the home. A clogged filter makes your furnace work harder.”
2. Schedule Routine HVAC Service
It’s common to have a technician stop by your home in the spring for AC service. That way, your unit is prepped for the warm weather.
But don’t forget to schedule an appointment for furnace service before it gets cold too.
Among other procedures, an inspection typically covers:
- Double-checking thermostat settings
- Cleaning and greasing internal pieces
- Taking a look at system shutdown and startup procedures
Regular service helps lower the possibility of handling an emergency repair in the middle of winter. Some reports have found as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been prevented with regular tune-ups.
3. Inspect Windows and Doors for Holes
Windows and doors are a central entry point for frigid air. Sealing window and door frames is an cost effective approach to help keep frigid air outside.
Here’s one check that Hughes suggests.
Latch a door. Is any light visible? If so, it’s not fully sealed. Changes or weather-stripping may be required.
If you have single-pane windows, you should consider a dual-pane upgrade.
Many homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting.
It’s not a bad solution, but dual-pane windows provide superior insulation for keeping chilled air out.
When you install double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or greater.
4. Limit Use of Vented Appliances
If you require the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes recommends against leaving it going for an extended period of time.
The same holds true for the dryer. Don’t allow it to run after your clothes are done.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan forces out warm air away from your home and pulls in cold air. Using these appliances all the time will force your HVAC system to work harder to take care of the unnecessary chill.
5. Examine Your Home’s Perimeter for Cracks
Evaluate your home’s perimeter. This is the area that shields your residence from the elements. If you have a basement, check for moving cobwebs or cold coming in around the edges.
Polyurethane products and other options can be bought to mend basement walls allowing air into your house. Another economical tip is to invest foam seals for fixture bottoms, such as ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re quick to install and are great at blocking cold air in the winter.
6. Evaluate Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth making sure that you have thick enough insulation levels
Hughes recommends checking the ENERGY STAR® zone map to find the recommended R-value for your house’s walls and attic space. This suggestion is formulated on the geographic location where you’re located.
7. Sign Up for Our Advantage Program™
Winter might be tough for homeowners with underperforming systems.
If your furnace is going out or requiring costly repair, there’s a reasonable chance you’re not prepared to spend thousands on a modern system.
That’s why we have our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you prevent costly service calls through a modest monthly fee.
We’ll also put in a high-efficiency system in your residence. Plus our Expert specialists will fix and tune it up for you without any additional out-of-pocket expense
Request an Appointment with Us Now
Make your Denver home more energy efficient with expert assistance from Service Experts.
For more information about our Advantage Program or to request an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 303-647-5853 or contact us online today.