With all of these storms lately, you’re probably spending a lot of time indoors with the heater on. Your heating system is a great comfort—at least until you get your monthly bill. We know that heating your home can cost quite a bit, but there are some simple things you can do to lower those bills without so much shivering.
Think the only way to save money on heating is to shut off your system altogether? Sure, this is an easy step to take, but the advice we have below isn’t that much more difficult. Here are 4 easy ways to keep bills low without missing out on comfort.
#1: USE those programmable settings!
Many homes have programmable thermostats that allow you to completely customize temperatures throughout the day and week as your schedule changes. Yet, so many of us are guilty of only turning on the thermostat when we get home, and relying on our groggy morning selves to remember to turn it off before leaving.
This is not the most efficient way to do things, as it leaves a lot of room for human error. If you’re not sure how to use the programmable thermostat on your wall, look up the instruction manual online or call a local technician for help. Otherwise, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat you can easily program from your phone. It even learns your habits within about a week!
#2: Seal those leaks
Air leaks throughout the home force your heating system to work way harder than it has to. This includes common leaks around windows and door frames, and around piping and outlets that lead to the outdoors. Caulk and weather stripping are easily obtained from your local hardware store for this purpose.
#3: Keep a chic basket of blankets out in the living space
How many times has this happened to you? You sit down to relax on the couch, only to suddenly realize how cold you are, so you get up and turn up the heat a few degrees. This can be extremely wasteful, especially since it’s usually unnecessary!
The longer you sit still, the cooler you will feel. That’s why it always helps to keep blankets and throws around the home, perhaps in a chic basket that matches your décor, so that you can keep your thermostat at an efficient temperature and still feel comfortable.
#4: Change the air filter
It’s such a simple task, but it’s one that gets neglected far too often. You might think the air filter is only there for your indoor air quality, but in truth it helps to protect your air conditioner from damage. This is not true, however, when it’s so clogged up with dirt that air cannot move through.
In this case, your heater has to work way harder than necessary, and it may soon overheat and give out for good. Changing the filter is such an easy way to prevent this and lower your bills by reducing system run times!
Schedule service for your furnace in Middletown, OH with the experts at Bartels Heating & Cooling.