With winter right around the corner, many homeowners are beginning to worry about how they will manage the high cost of keeping their home warm and cozy. Luckily, there are things you can do to reduce energy use and keep heating bills as low as possible. While there might be an initial investment, many energy saving tips are quick and easy and require very little money to begin reaping the rewards of significant monthly savings on your heating costs.
Homeowners can lose a great deal of heat through the walls and attic of their home. In order to help retain heat and increase energy efficiency, it is important to make sure you have adequate insulation. Depending on the area of the country where you live and the particular design of your home, the amount of insulation you will need can vary. For most homeowners, a minimum of 12″ of insulation in the attic should be sufficient.
Another area where you can lose heat is through leaks. Whether you have windows, doors or an attic that lets out the warm air, this wasted energy can add up to a significant chunk of your monthly heating bill. Even if you are not able to purchase the latest in energy efficient windows, you can purchase window kits that are easy to install and will help seal your windows against drafts and wasted energy. If you feel drafts, such as around outlets or doors, caulking can be an affordable and easy solution. There are also liners that can be placed behind wall outlets on exterior walls in order to provide the seal you need in order to avoid heat loss.
An important factor that many homeowners overlook is annual heater maintenance. When your heat pump or furnace is professionally maintained by a licensed heating service, you can be sure that it will provide the highest energy efficiency possible. If you have an older heating system, you might want to consider the benefits of a new heater installation. Many of today’s new furnaces and heat pumps come excellent energy efficiency ratings, as well as the latest technology for convenience and comfort. Whether you are interested in a new heater installation or you want the energy efficient benefits of annual heater maintenance, a professional HVAC service technician will be able to provide the highest quality repairs and service for your heating system. Additionally, a professional heating contractor will be able to help protect your equipment while maximizing its dependability and longevity.
