Your residence is likely among your most cherished investments. It supports you financially through improving equity, and it’s a place to watch your family grow and make memories, too. When it’s cold, you might also be dealing with increased energy expenses.
As a consequence, finding approaches to lower your heating bill in Elkhart without compromising comfort can feel difficult.
As far as energy efficiency, houses are like motor vehicles. Some require a lot of energy while others sip it gradually. Regardless of what type of residence you have, there are methods to stop the cold this winter. The Experts are here with seven suggestions to help you stay comfortable without driving up your energy bill.
1. Change Your Air Filter
It’s the most economical solution that exists. It’s also the best approach to keep your heating system running properly during the winter.
The model of filter and seasonal determinants contribute to how often you should put in a new one. Soaring allergen counts, pets and home size can also influence its durability. Generally, fiberglass filters should be swapped every month. Pleated models made with thicker material could work for three months or longer.
“It’s really the major thing people forget about,” said Jim Hughes, senior manager of education and training at Service Experts. “The more overloaded the filter is, the less air is able to be filtered through it and actually warm the home. A dirty filter makes your heating system work harder.”
2. Schedule Annual HVAC Service
It’s common to have a tech come by your house in the spring for AC service. That way, your air conditioner is ready for the summer.
But don’t overlook scheduling an appointment for furnace service before it snows too.
Among other actions, an inspection typically includes:
- Checking thermostat settings
- Cleaning and oiling internal components
- Inspecting system shutdown and startup procedures
Regular service helps lower the odds of dealing with an emergency repair in the middle of a cold snap. Some reports have indicated as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been stopped with regular tune-ups.
3. Examine Windows and Doors for Leaks
Windows and doors are a central entry point for cold air. Sealing window and door frames is an economical way to help keep chilly air where it belongs.
Here’s one test that Hughes recommends.
Shut a door. Do you notice any light? If so, it’s not totally sealed. Changes or weather-stripping might be required.
If your residence has single-pane windows, you may want to think over a dual-pane upgrade.
Many homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting.
It’s not a bad option, but dual-pane windows provide much better insulation for keeping cool air where it belongs.
When you install double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or better.
4. Limit Use of Vented Appliances
If you use the exhaust fan throughout cooking, Hughes recommends against leaving it going for a long time.
The same goes for for the dryer. Don’t let it to work after your clothes are ready.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan expels heated air away from your home and increases cold air. Operating these appliances continuously will force your heater to work harder to manage the preventable chill.
5. Look at Your Residence’s Outer Edges for Holes
Inspect your residence’s perimeter. This is the boundary that shields your home from the elements. If there’s a basement, check for moving cobwebs or chilly air flowing in near the sides.
Polyurethane products and other things can be purchased to fix basement walls allowing air into your house. Another economical move is to get foam seals for fixture undersides, like ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re fast to use and are awesome at blocking cold air in the winter.
6. Check Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth confirming that you have adequate insulation levels
Hughes recommends visiting the ENERGY STAR® zone map to find the suitable R-value for your home’s walls and attic space. This recommendation is based on the geographic area where you’re located.
7. Sign Up for Our Advantage Program™
Winter can be trying for homeowners with old systems.
If your furnace is failing or in need of expensive fixes, there’s a reasonable chance you’re not prepared to spend thousands on a new system.
That’s why we offer our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you prevent pricey repairs through a low monthly fee.
We’ll also hook up an energy-saving system in your house. Plus our Expert specialists will fix and service it for you without any extra out-of-pocket cost
Book an Appointment with Us Now
Make your Elkhart house more energy efficient with expert help from Service Experts.
For more specifics about our Advantage Program or to request an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 574-218-6404 or contact us online right away.