As the weather changes and you go from enjoying warm summer days to trying to survive those frigid fall nights there is no doubt that you will begin using your heater much more frequently. We all know there is a direct correlation between heater usage and power bill costs but there are a few tips you could use to diminish some unnecessary costs. There are a few things most people are losing money on that are solved with a quick fix. We will discuss a few things to help you save money, as well as a few other tips to help you be a safe, happy homeowner.
One of the easiest things you can do to improve your air quality and furnace efficiency is to remember to replace your air filter monthly. Most people ignore this simple maintenance task but it will change everything! If your family is one that struggles with allergies or maybe has pets, changing your filter is crucial to assuring quality air is being sent through your air vents. The US Department of Energy states that changing your air filter monthly can save an average of around 5 to 15 percent in power bill costs yearly. This can be a lifesaver for some people's pockets but also will keep everyone living under your roof healthy and happy knowing they are breathing quality air.
Using a programmable thermostat can save hundreds of dollars each year. If you are a family who spends most of their time away during the week, it is crucial to have a programmable thermostat that keeps your home at a constant temperature. But not just any temperature, when you are away you should set your thermostat at a lower temperature to assure your furnace will not turn on for no reason. If you aren’t at home there is no reason to be blasting the heat. As routine maintenance, you should try to get your thermostat checked for accuracy whenever you have an HVAC team member around. A faulty thermostat can cause your heater to run because it is reading the incorrect temperature. This can burn a hole in your pocket if this issue is not noticed quickly.
As a homeowner, one of the most irritating things is knowing you have a leak because of faulty windows or doors. This can be one of the leading causes of high power bills, if air can come in then it can go out as well. Try using a door insulator that slides onto the bottom part of the door, it can kill any sort of draft you may have. Any home improvement store also sells window insulators, they can come in many shapes and sizes. If your windows are very leaky you may want to invest in window plastic covers that cover the entire window frame. They will save you A LOT of money during the winter by creating a barrier to block any sort of draft.
If you own a gas powered furnace, a carbon monoxide alarm is a must. These heaters can become faulty and exhaust dangers carbon monoxide gas into your home. It is crucial to use an alarm to help you detect any scares. This gas is known to be odorless so it is best to get help.
To assure your heating and air conditioning is working at the highest capacity make sure to schedule routine maintenance checks with your local NexGen Air staff. This will give your furnace the longest lifespan possible as well as keep your systems working at maximum efficiency, having a huge effect on your entire home.
