If the thought of hefty heating bills sends shivers down your spine, it’s time to take action. Consider it the Experts In Your Home Challenge, as we’re committed to helping you gain control over your heating expenses – and perhaps even cut them down for good.
Seal Air Leaks Even the most well-built and insulated homes aren’t immune to outdoor temperatures. To prevent cold air from infiltrating your home, start by sealing any leaks or cracks, especially around doors and windows. A windy day is ideal for detecting air leaks. Check areas around pipes, electrical switches, outlets, and register covers too. Use caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping to seal any identified leaks. Consider using shrink film around doors and windows to further minimize energy loss.
Inspect Insulation and Ducts In addition to sealing air leaks, ensure your attic insulation is sufficient. Reinforce insulation where needed to improve energy efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy provides a helpful guide for homeowners on this topic.
Lower Your Thermostat Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can result in significant savings on your heating bill – typically between 2 and 4 percent, according to the Department of Energy. If you don’t already have one, consider installing a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when your home is empty or during sleeping hours.
Additional Steps to Save on Heating Costs In addition to the above measures, you can further reduce your heating expenses by:
- Scheduling a furnace tune-up with a heating system service to ensure optimal efficiency.
- Checking and replacing your furnace filter monthly to maintain efficiency.
- Setting your water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and insulating the pipes.
- Running ceiling fans clockwise to circulate warm air that collects near the ceiling.
- Opening window treatments during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home.