Your residence is likely one of your most cherished investments. It helps you financially through increasing equity, and it’s an area to raise your family and make moments you’ll remember, too. This time of year, you might also face increased energy expenses.
As a consequence, finding approaches to lower your heating bill in Buffalo without lowering comfort can seem challenging.
In regard to energy efficiency, residences are similar to vehicles. Some require a lot of energy while others drink it slowly. Regardless of what kind of house you own, there are steps to block the cold this winter. The Experts are here with seven ideas to keep you toasty without breaking the bank.
1. Change Your Air Filter
It’s the most cost-effective recommendation there is. It’s also the best approach to keep your heater running smoothly during the winter.
The type of filter and seasonal determinants influence how frequently you should replace it. High allergen counts, pets and home size can also influence its longevity. Typically, inexpensive filters should be changed every month. Pleated styles made with higher-quality material may make it three months or longer.
“It’s really the large thing folks overlook,” said Jim Hughes, senior manager of education and training at Service Experts. “The more overloaded the filter is, the less air is able to move through it and actually add warmth to the residence. A clogged filter makes your heating system work harder.”
2. Schedule Annual HVAC Service
It’s common to have a technician stop by your home in the spring for AC service. That way, your system is ready for the heat.
But don’t neglect to schedule an appointment for furnace service before the winter too.
Among other steps, an inspection commonly includes:
- Checking thermostat settings
- Cleaning and greasing internal components
- Inspecting system shutdown and startup processes
Maintenance helps lessen the chance 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 routine tune-ups.
3. Examine Windows and Doors for Cracks
Windows and doors are a leading entry point for cold air. Sealing window and door frames is an practical way to help keep frigid air out.
Here’s one test that Hughes recommends.
Close a door. Is any light visible? If so, it’s not entirely sealed. Changes or weather-stripping may be needed.
If your house has single-pane windows, you may want to consider a dual-pane upgrade.
Some homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic wrap.
It’s not a bad idea, but dual-pane windows provide superior insulation for keeping cool air outside.
When you install double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or higher.
4. Regulate Use of Vented Appliances
If you need the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes advises against leaving it going for too long.
The same goes for for the dryer. Don’t allow it to run after your clothes are ready.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan forces out heated air outside and increases cold air. Running these appliances longer than needed will require your heater to work harder to handle the avoidable coldness.
5. Check Your Home’s Edges for Leaks
Examine your residence’s exterior. This is the barrier that separates your house from the elements. If there’s a basement, look for moving cobwebs or chilly air leaking in near the corners.
Polyurethane sealant and other things can be purchased to plug basement walls allowing air into your house. Another economical move is to get foam seals for fixture bottoms, such as ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re easy to use and are awesome at stopping cold air in the winter.
6. Check Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth confirming that you have appropriate insulation levels
Hughes suggests visiting the ENERGY STAR® zone map to locate the suitable R-value for your house’s walls and attic space. This suggestion is established on the geographic area where you live.
7. Consider Our Advantage Program™
Winter could be tough for homeowners with inefficient equipment.
If your furnace is going out or in need of extensive repair, there’s a decent chance you’re not able to spend thousands on an updated system.
That’s why we provide our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you bypass pricey repairs through a small monthly fee.
We’ll also put in an energy-saving system in your home. Plus our pro techs will overhaul and tune it up for you without any extra out-of-pocket fee
Book an Appointment with Us Now
Make your Buffalo home more energy efficient with expert help from Service Experts.
For more specifics about our Advantage Program or to book an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 716-427-6807 or contact us online now.