Are you looking for a more energy efficient heating option this winter? Are you tired of paying a good portion of your monthly income to heating and cooling costs? Heating a home can be expensive, especially during a cold winter. Fortunately, with these energy efficient heating recommendations, you can cut your heating costs and put more money back in your pocket.
Schedule an HVAC inspection service
The first step in understanding your heating costs is to schedule an HVAC inspection service. During this service appointment, the HVAC contractor will evaluate all aspects of your heat system. They will look for any areas of improvement and might even recommend a new, more efficient heat system. The HVAC contractor will also look at your AC service system, as they are related. Heating and cooling account for about 48% of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most homes. Most people will replace both the heat and AC system when the time comes.
Decide when you will replace your HVAC system
You, as the homeowner, will have to decide when it is time to replace your HVAC system. If you do not have the funds right now or simply do not want to replace it just yet, fortunately there are other options available to increase your energy efficient heating. It can also be useful to put a timeline on the replacement. This way, you can prepare for the new installation. It is also important to do a lot of research prior to purchasing a new HVAC system so putting a timeline on the process can be useful.
Clean out all of your air ducts
Excessive dust and debris can prevent energy efficient heating. Dust and other particles can block the air ducts, making it so less heat gets into the house. Air ducts should be cleaned out annually. It is usually best to hire a professional as they have the equipment and tools available to get deep into the air ducts. While you are having your air ducts cleaned, it is also a good time to schedule duct sealing services. If the air ducts are not sealed properly, you can also lose a lot of heat. If available, add on an air quality testing service also. This ensures not only that the heat is making it into your home, but that it is clean and healthy air.
Insulate the rest of your house
In addition to air duct sealing, you also want to prevent heat from leaking out the roof and windows. Adding extra insulation can make your home feel warmer, for a reduced cost. In fact, installing insulation is generally the best step you can take to reduce energy waste. Without adequate attic insulation, for example, up to 20% of every dollar spent on home heating goes right out the roof. Adding insulation to your roof and attic areas is easy, cost efficient, and can provide you with significant results.
Create a heat schedule that works for your family
Most heating systems work based on the current temperature of the house. Once the temperature in the house gets to a specific degree, the heating systems either turn on or off. However, with today?s technology and newer thermostats, you have the ability to schedule your heat. Create a schedule that works around you and your family?s heat needs. Arrange for the thermostat to turn on before you get up in the morning. Also schedule it to turn down a couple of degrees when everyone is in bed at night. These pre scheduled setting will provide you with more energy efficient heating.
Heating and air conditioning your home take 43% from your monthly utility bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This winter, stop throwing out your hard earned money and improve the efficiency of your heating system. These recommendations will help you evaluate your current efficiency and then to make the necessary changes.