How to Save on Your Heating Bill This Winter
January 20, 2022Heating bills can be a headache, especially when they escalate during a harsh winter. But, there are some things you can do to keep it under control and create less stress around your energy bills. Here are a few ways to save on your heating bill this winter:
1. Turn Down the Heat
One simple and basic way to save money on your heating bills this winter is to turn down the heat. Each degree that you lower the thermostat equates to more money in your pocket. You don’t want to take it to the extreme and go too cold.
But, you can find a happy medium where it’s warm enough and you can throw on a second layer or a blanket if you get chilly instead of upping the thermostat and making your heating system work harder.
The typical rule of thumb is that for every degree you lower the temperature in your home when heating it, it equals a 3% savings on your electric bill. The ACEEE (American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy) states that if you remember to turn down the thermostat 10 degrees when you go to work and then again 10 degrees when you go to bed, it will save around 14% on your heating bills during the winter.
2. Use a Smart Thermostat
Installing and using a smart thermostat can help you save on your heating bill this winter. This can make it easier to manage the temperature in your home and also to automatically lower the temperature at night and at times you know you won’t be home during the day.
3. Winterize Your Home
Winterizing your home is a must when it comes to energy efficiency and saving money on your heating bills. Not only does it help protect your home and prevent wasted energy, but it also helps you identify and combat winter drafts.
You can caulk around windows if you need to and use weatherstripping on doors to prevent heat loss. Also, look for air leaks in other areas, such as in the attic, basement, fireplaces, and more. Improving insulation throughout the interior of your home in addition to installing storm windows and doors can help you reduce drafts, seal air leaks, and keep more heat inside your home.
4. Adjust Your Water Heater
In addition to turning down your thermostat to keep the temperature in a manageable range, it’s a good idea to turn down your water heater, too. Typically, the factory setting on a water heater is a little bit higher than necessary.
Check your water heater to see where it is currently set. If it is above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, lower it to 120. Not only does this still provide plenty of comfortable hot water, but it also helps you save on heating costs, especially during the winter.
5. Regularly Maintain Your Heating System
Part of winterizing your home and protecting your home, in general, is doing regular maintenance. Just like any other system or appliance in your home, your heating system requires regular maintenance to continue running and working efficiently.
It’s a good idea to have a reputable technician do regular service and maintenance on your HVAC system at least twice a year. Beyond that, there are also some simple things you can do to help keep your system running well, like replacing air filters regularly.
Not replacing air filters can seriously hinder your heating system and increase energy costs overall. In fact, it’s one of the most common home heating mistakes that increase your energy bills.
These are just a few tips on how to save on your heating bill this winter. If your current home isn’t cutting it and doesn’t feel like home, consider building a custom home. Not only are there several methods for building an energy-efficient custom home, but it’s also a home that is designed and built to suit your needs.
If you’re ready to get started on your own custom home, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090. We can help bring your dream home to life!