Your house is likely among your most treasured investments. It helps you financially through equity-building, and it’s a space to enjoy with your family and develop memorable moments, too. When it’s cold, you might also face growing gas expenses.
Consequently, finding methods to lower your heating bill in Austin without compromising comfort can feel harder than it needs to be.
As far as energy efficiency, homes resemble vehicles. Some require a lot of energy while others use it slowly. Regardless of what type of house you own, there are methods to stop the chill this winter. The Experts are here with seven suggestions to help you stay comfy without going over budget.
1. Change Your Air Filter
It’s the most economical solution there is. It’s also the best way to keep your furnace operating smoothly throughout the winter.
The type of filter and seasonal determinants affect how regularly you should replace it. Increased allergen counts, pets and house size may also influence its durability. Typically, fiberglass filters should be changed monthly. Pleated models made with better material might work for three months or longer.
“It’s really the major thing folks overlook,” said Jim Hughes, senior manager of education and training at Service Experts. “The more loaded up the filter is, the less air is able to go through it and actually add warmth to the home. A dirty filter makes your HVAC system work harder.”
2. Schedule Regular HVAC Service
It’s standard to have a tech come to your house in the spring for AC service. That way, your system 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 covers:
- Checking thermostat settings
- Cleaning and oiling internal parts
- Inspecting system shutdown and startup controls
A tune-up helps decrease the likelihood 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 regular tune-ups.
3. Inspect Windows and Doors for Holes
Windows and doors are a central entry point for chilly air. Caulking window and door frames is an economical approach to help keep cold air where it belongs.
Here’s one test that Hughes suggests.
Latch a door. Do you notice any light? If so, it’s not fully sealed. Changes or weather-stripping might be necessary.
If you have single-pane windows, you should consider a dual-pane upgrade.
Some homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting.
It’s not a bad idea, but dual-pane windows provide enhanced insulation for keeping cold air out.
When you switch to double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or greater.
4. Regulate Use of Vented Appliances
If you require the exhaust fan while cooking, Hughes advises against leaving it on for too long.
The same holds true for the dryer. Don’t let it to work after your clothes are done.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan forces out hot air out and pulls in cold air. Running these appliances all the time will make your heater to use more energy to manage the unnecessary cold.
5. Inspect Your Home’s Outer Edges for Leaks
Inspect your residence’s exterior. This is the boundary that shields your residence from the weather. If there’s a basement, check for fluttering cobwebs or chilly air coming in around the sides.
Polyurethane products and other solutions can be used to mend basement walls leaking air into your home. Another affordable tip is to invest foam seals for fixture bases, like ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re fast to install and are awesome at blocking cold air in the winter.
6. Check Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth ensuring that you have thick enough insulation levels
Hughes suggests looking at the ENERGY STAR® zone map to determine the suitable R-value for your residence’s walls and attic space. This suggestion is based on the geographic area where you live.
7. Think About Our Advantage Program™
Winter could be trying for homeowners with aging units.
If your furnace is failing or requiring major repair, there’s a decent chance you’re not prepared to spend thousands on a modern system.
That’s why we provide our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you avoid pricey fixes through a small monthly fee.
We’ll also put in an energy-saving system in your residence. Plus our professional techs will overhaul and tune it up for you without any added out-of-pocket cost
Book an Appointment with Us Now
Make your Austin home 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 512-592-3072 or contact us online today.