The cold days and colder nights of winter will be here soon, and there is nothing you can do to stop the onslaught. But while you may not be able to stop winter from coming, you can stop the cold weather from ushering in a new season of high energy bills.
You do not have to take the cold weather lying down or resign yourself to months of high heating costs and soaring energy bills. If you want to keep more money in your pocket this winter, you can start by looking for hidden factors that could be costing you money. Here are some of the overlooked issues that could be causing your winter heating bills to spike.
Poorly installed or insulated windows
Windows that are improperly installed are sieves for cold air, making your home less comfortable and causing you to crank up the thermostat.
Clogged or Worn Out Furnace Filter
If you cannot remember the last time you changed the filter in your furnace, chances are it is long overdue. A clogged or dirty filter will reduce the efficiency of your heating system and could send your utility bills soaring. Changing your filter often is the best thing you can do and in many cases you’re better off with less expensive filters as many of the the more expensive ones can actually prevent airflow leading to premature wear of your equipment. For more information about the filters we recommend or to buy them directly from us, give us a call.
Inefficient Space Heaters
Space heaters can be good auxiliary heat sources, allowing you to turn the thermostat down, but the wrong use could be costing you money. Plugging in multiple space heaters in your spare rooms is highly inefficient; closing those rooms off would be better.
Neglected Basement Windows
It is easy to forget about the windows in your basement, especially if the space is not normally used. A crack in a basement window, or a window inadvertently left open, could cause your furnace to work harder than necessary and your winter heating costs to soar.\
Incorrect Water Heater Setting
The production of hot water is a major factor in your monthly utility cost, so check the setting carefully. The water heater should be set to the lowest comfortable setting.
Faulty Appliances
Problems with your appliances could translate into higher utility costs this winter. Something as simple as an incomplete seal on the freezer compartment in your refrigerator could affect your utility costs and cost you money.
The winter season will be here before you know it, so now is the time to get ready. You may not be able to stop the cold weather from coming, but you can make sure those chillier temperatures do not cost you more money than they should.
