Ways to Increase Your Furnace’s Energy Efficiency
With winter on the way, you could be considering your energy bills with a sense of unease. The chilly months often bring an increase in electricity or natural gas costs, depending on what fuel source you use to heat your home and hot water. But don’t worry—with an appropriate approach, you can manage your winter energy efficiency and save a significant amount of cash. Here’s how to fine-tune your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable without draining your finances.
Schedule Fall Furnace Maintenance
Your climate control system is like a car—it functions more efficiently when well-maintained. Scheduling annual preventative maintenance before winter arrives enhances your system’s efficiency and can save you up to 5% on energy costs. Beyond helping your HVAC equipment run more efficiently, this regular check can uncover any hidden issues. Identifying and fixing these issues early prevents inconvenient breakdowns and more costly repair bills mid-season.
Upgrade Your Old Furnace
If your furnace is more than 10 years old and having problems, it might be time for an upgrade. Antiquated systems can be a significant financial burden, costing you more in energy and repairs than they’re worth. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency Energy Star®-certified model can lower your utility bills by as much as 40%. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more consistently relaxing indoor environment when your heating system furnace meets today’s standards.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Remember those sweltering summer days when you programmed your thermostat to 78 degrees to save on costs? Well, that setting won’t do you any favors in the winter. Adjust your thermostat for the season by setting it to 70 degrees or lower. Every degree you lower the temperature can save you up to 3% on your heating bill.
Moreover, opt for a smart programmable thermostat you can set and forget. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices allow you to control your home’s temperature remotely. The most advanced learning models make automatic adjustments taking into account your behaviors, helping you maintain comfort while saving electricity when you’re away or sleeping.
Switch Out the Air Filter
The furnace air filter influences how efficiently your HVAC system runs. A dirty, clogged filter forces your furnace and air conditioner to work harder to circulate air, escalating energy consumption. To stop this scenario, check the filter monthly and replace it every 1-3 months as a budget-friendly and simple way to improve winter energy efficiency.
Check Your Air Registers
The little details count. Rapidly dusting your supply and return registers eliminates hair, dirt and other obstructions that restrict airflow. Once clean, ensure your curtains, rugs and furniture aren’t blocking the vents. Ensuring clear passage for warm air to circulate makes a significant impact in your home’s comfort and energy usage this winter.
Remove Drafts in Your Home
Even minor drafts can put undue strain on your heating and cooling system. Perform a sweep of your home to spot and seal any air leaks. These are easiest to find on chilly, windy days that pull the heat out through gaps and cracks. Install weatherstripping and caulk around doors and windows, and apply spray foam around plumbing, vents and wiring penetrations to stop costly air leaks immediately.
Increase Insulation in Your Home
The attic is the most convenient place to add insulation to an existing home. Extra insulation on the attic floor means less heat loss through the ceiling, making it easier for your heating and cooling system to maintain a pleasant temperature. But insulation isn’t just for your attic—you can also insulate pipes, ductwork and electrical outlets on exterior walls to boost efficiency.
Consider Zoning
If your home has multiple levels or wings, you could benefit from installing a zoned HVAC system. This involves installing dampers in the ductwork and installing multiple thermostats that allow you to independently control the temperature in various zones of your home. You may heat the ground floor during the day and the upstairs bedrooms at night, conserving energy by only paying to heat select parts of your home when you need them.
Choose a Humidifier
Winter air is typically extremely dry. You might tackle this with multiple humidifiers throughout your residence, but there’s a better way. Use a whole-house humidifier to work in coordination with your HVAC. Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so a whole-house humidifier enhances a cozier interior without raising the thermostat.
Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Winter Prep in the U.S.
If you’re looking to boost your home’s winter energy efficiency in the U.S., Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to assist. Our ACE-certified technicians offer quick, reliable solutions to all your comfort concerns, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
If you’re not happy with our performance, you can depend on us to make it right. Call 866-397-3787 today so the technicians at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can make a substantial difference in your life and sense of comfort this winter.