Most homeowners see higher bills every year from heating their homes during the winter. There are many small changes you can make to reduce heating costs and get the most out of the energy that you consume.
Change Your HVAC Filter
A dirty filter covered in dust and debris will force your heating system to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. New filters are affordable, especially when weighed against increased heating costs from an inefficient HVAC unit.
Change your air filter once a quarter or once a month if you have allergies, have pets, or live in an area with poor air quality.
Clear the Space in Front of Radiators and Vents
Many people waste money on heating costs by keeping clutter, boxes, and furniture in front of vents and radiators.
Make sure that there are no chairs, dressers, desks, or other items blocking the flow of warm air into each room. As a rule of thumb, you should keep belongings 8 inches or more away from radiators and vents to allow for optimal circulation.
Use a Programmable Thermostat to Reduce Heating Costs
Programmable thermostats are a great investment for all homeowners, as they take the guesswork out of heating and cooling a house.
When you program your thermostat for the winter, you can have it maintain a lower temperature while you sleep at night and at times when the home is empty. You can even schedule the heat to turn on 15 minutes before you arrive so your home is warm and comfortable when you get there.
Have an Energy Audit
Areas of your home might be losing heat and wasting energy. A professional can perform an energy audit of your house to pinpoint specific areas where warm air is leaving your house and cool air is getting inside.
Many houses have cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and exterior plumbing fixtures. Some homes also have heating systems in need of maintenance that would help to optimize performance and reduce heating costs.
An energy assessment provides a detailed list of repairs and steps you can take to boost energy efficiency at your house.
Add Insulation to Reduce Heating Costs
Over time, the insulation in your attic can shift or settle, causing it to be less efficient. Water damage from roofing leaks or damage from pests can also affect the insulation. If you’re struggling to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, add insulation. While you can do this project yourself, some choose to hire a professional to complete the job.
North Point Home Inspections provides inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in and around Atlanta, GA. Contact us to request an inspection of your property.