While wintertime is often considered the most wonderful time of the year, one major drawback to this joyous season is high utility bills. As you shelter yourself from the chilly outdoor temps, your heating system works overtime to keep you comfortable. And as a result, your energy expenses skyrocket.
With the proper HVAC knowledge and understanding, you can lessen your heating system’s burdens and save on utility costs this winter. At ACS, we offer high-quality heating services and exclusive industry insight to help you be mindful of your furnace’s load. Below, we’ve compiled a list of ways to lessen the load on your heating system before extreme temperatures hit.
Change The Air Filter
One straightforward way to ease the load on your furnace is to change your air filter. No matter what season, you should change your air filters regularly, as they are easily susceptible to clogs and buildup. If your filter accumulates dust, dirt, pollen, and other contaminants, your heating system must work overtime to pull airflow through the heat exchanger efficiently. Not only will this use of excess energy put stress on your system’s heating system components, but it will also put some significant stress on your bank account. We recommend changing your filter every 30-60 days to keep warm without the pressure of rising energy costs.
Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks are a common culprit of heavy heating system loads. An air leak in your home forces your heating system to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature. These leaks are commonly found in the basement, attic, ductwork, and around windows or doors. Regardless of the season, you should check these vulnerable areas for leaks to prevent drafts and conserve energy. If you detect an air leak, use caulk, weatherstripping or spray foam to seal any openings. You can also call your local air specialist to address your leakage concerns and receive a thorough energy evaluation of your home.
Upgrade Insulation
Proper insulation is the key to a warm, cost-efficient winter for your household. Most homes have naturally cooler areas than others, forcing your heating system to work harder to maintain warmer temperatures in these rooms. Basements and attics, in particular, require thorough insulation to maintain the desired temperature. By insulating, ventilating, and sealing your attic or basement, you can prevent heat from escaping and avoid burdening your heating system.
Install A Programmable Thermostat
If you’re constantly fiddling with your thermostat settings, you’re hurting your system’s heating efficiency. However, all your problems could be solved if you switch to a programmable thermostat. Programmable or WiFi-operated thermostats are your best bet for saving energy and maintaining your desired comfort level. Giving you complete control of your heating system, programmable thermostats allow you to set a specific heating schedule for your home and optimize your energy efficiency.
Utilize Curtains, Blinds, and Drapes
Window coverings are an excellent life hack for saving energy in the cooler months. While your heating system’s purpose is to warm your space, many forget there is free heat right outside their window. By keeping curtains, blinds, and drapes open on south-facing windows during the winter, you can enjoy the sun’s free solar heat without spending a dime. This straightforward tactic is an efficient way to heat your home without having to crank up the heat. But remember to close these coverings when the sun goes down, as this will help insulate your home and maintain costs.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
We saved the best for last. At ACS, we cannot stress the importance of routinely scheduling professional preventative maintenance on your HVAC system enough. These measures during the mild seasons will set your heating and cooling systems up for success when extreme temperatures hit. With professional cleaning, system inspection, and testing, your heating system will be equipped to take on the chilly winter temps without wasting energy and breaking the bank.
At ACS, we are committed to helping you get the most out of your heating and cooling systems. Whether it’s regular maintenance or a new furnace installation, no heating job is too big or too small for our team of certified HVAC technicians. If you’re looking for a furnace replacement or repair, connect with our team today for premium HVAC maintenance in Covington, Milledgeville, and surrounding areas.
