Your residence is usually one of your most precious investments. It helps you financially through equity-building, and it’s a space to raise your family and create moments you’ll remember, too. During the winter, you could also be dealing with higher utility expenses.
Consequently, finding ways to lower your heating bill in Richmond without giving up comfort can feel harder than it needs to be.
As far as energy efficiency, homes are similar to vehicles. Some consume a lot of energy while others sip it gradually. Regardless of what type of residence you own, there are methods to stop the cold this winter. The Experts are here with seven ideas to help you stay comfortable without driving up your energy bill.
1. Get a New Your Air Filter
It’s the most cost-effective suggestion out there. It’s also the best way to keep your heater running optimally during the winter.
The model of filter and seasonal elements contribute to how often you should replace it. Increased allergen counts, pets and house size may also impact its life span. Generally, cheap filters should be replaced every month. Pleated models made with thicker material may work for three months or longer.
“It’s really the big thing homeowners 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 go through it and actually heat the house. An overloaded filter makes your HVAC system work harder.”
2. Schedule Annual HVAC Service
It’s standard to have a technician come to your residence in the spring for AC service. That way, your unit is prepared for the warm weather.
But don’t neglect to schedule an appointment for furnace service before it gets cold too.
Among other actions, an inspection typically includes:
- Examining thermostat settings
- Cleaning and greasing internal pieces
- Examining system shutdown and startup procedures
Maintenance helps lessen the possibility 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 tune-ups.
3. Examine Windows and Doors for Leaks
Windows and doors are a central entry point for chilly air. Caulking window and door frames is an economical approach to help keep frigid air out.
Here’s one test that Hughes suggests.
Shut a door. Is any light visible? If so, it’s not entirely sealed. Changes or weather-stripping could be required.
If your residence has single-pane windows, you should consider a dual-pane improvement.
A lot of homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting.
It’s not a bad solution, but dual-pane windows provide much better insulation for keeping cool air out.
When you switch to double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or greater.
4. Restrict Use of Vented Appliances
If you require the exhaust fan while cooking, Hughes recommends against leaving it going for an extended period of time.
The same holds true for the dryer. Don’t let it to operate after your clothes are dry.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan pulls out warm air away from your home and increases cold air. Running these appliances longer than needed will make your furnace to run more often to take care of the avoidable chill.
5. Examine Your Home’s Outer Edges for Leaks
Examine your residence’s perimeter. This is the boundary that protects your house from the weather. If you have a basement, check for blowing cobwebs or cold leaking in close by the sides.
Polyurethane products and other solutions can be bought to mend basement walls leaking air into your house. Another economical idea is to invest foam seals for fixture bases, for example ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re simple to put in and are fantastic at stopping cold air in the winter.
6. Evaluate Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth making sure that you have appropriate insulation levels
Hughes recommends looking at the ENERGY STAR® zone map to locate the appropriate R-value for your house’s walls and attic space. This recommendation is based on the geographic spot where you’re located.
7. Sign Up for Our Advantage Program™
Winter may be tough for homeowners with old units.
If your furnace is malfunctioning or requiring expensive service, there’s a good 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 bypass pricey repairs through a low monthly fee.
We’ll also put in an energy-efficient system in your home. Plus our professional specialists will repair and tune it up for you without any additional out-of-pocket expense
Request an Appointment with Us Today
Make your Richmond house more energy efficient with expert help from Service Experts.
For more information about our Advantage Program or to request an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 804-548-4480 or contact us online right away.