Your residence is usually one of your most precious investments. It assists you financially through increasing equity, and it’s an area to enjoy with your family and make memorable moments, too. This time of year, you might also be experiencing growing gas costs.
As a consequence, finding methods to lower your heating bill in Fort Worth without compromising comfort can appear challenging.
When it comes to energy efficiency, houses are like vehicles. Some guzzle energy while others use it steadily. Regardless of what sort of residence you own, there are ways to end the chill this winter. The Experts are here with seven ideas to keep you toasty without driving up your energy bill.
1. Change Your Air Filter
It’s the most cost-effective recommendation that exists. It’s also the best approach to keep your heater running smoothly throughout the winter.
The kind of filter and seasonal determinants contribute to how frequently you should get a new one. Increased allergen counts, pets and home size may also affect its longevity. In most cases, inexpensive filters should be replaced each month. Pleated ones made with better material could make it three months or longer.
“It’s really the big thing homeowners 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 be filtered through it and actually warm the home. A dirty filter makes your HVAC system work harder.”
2. Schedule Routine HVAC Service
It’s normal to have a tech come by your home in the spring for AC service. That way, your system is prepared for the heat.
But don’t forget to schedule an appointment for furnace service before the winter too.
Among other procedures, an inspection typically covers:
- Examining thermostat settings
- Cleaning and lubricating internal components
- Taking a look at system shutdown and startup controls
Maintenance helps lessen the chance of facing 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 stopped with normal maintenance.
3. Check Windows and Doors for Cracks
Windows and doors are a central entry point for cold air. Sealing window and door frames is an practical approach to help keep frigid air outside.
Here’s one test that Hughes advises.
Latch a door. Do you notice any light? If that’s the case, it’s not fully sealed. Changes or weather-stripping might be required.
If you have single-pane windows, you should consider a dual-pane option.
Many 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 outside.
When you install double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or greater.
4. Regulate Use of Vented Appliances
If you use the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes advises against leaving it on for an extended period of time.
The same holds true for the dryer. Don’t allow it to operate after your clothes are dry.
Any venting appliance or exhaust fan expels heated air out and adds cold air. Running these appliances all the time will require your furnace to work harder to battle the preventable coldness.
5. Inspect Your Residence’s Perimeter for Holes
Inspect your home’s exterior. This is the barrier that protects your home from the elements. If your home has a basement, check for blowing cobwebs or chilly air leaking in near the corners.
Polyurethane products and other things can be bought to mend basement walls leaking air into your residence. Another affordable idea is to get foam seals for fixture bases, like ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets.
They’re simple to install and are fantastic at blocking cold air in the winter.
6. Evaluate Insulation Levels in Your Attic
It’s worth confirming that you have thick enough insulation levels
Hughes advises looking at the ENERGY STAR® zone map to determine the appropriate R-value for your house’s walls and attic space. This value is based on the geographic area where you’re located.
7. Think About Our Advantage Program™
Winter might be tough for homeowners with failing units.
If your furnace is not working right or in need of extensive fixes, there’s a good chance you’re not ready to spend thousands on a new system.
That’s why we have our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you bypass costly fixes through a small monthly fee.
We’ll also put in an energy-saving system in your house. Plus our pro specialists will fix and service it for you without any additional out-of-pocket fee
Book an Appointment with Us Right Away
Make your Fort Worth residence more energy efficient with professional support from Service Experts.
For more details about our Advantage Program or to book an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 817-380-5647 or contact us online now.