The winter months bring lots of enjoyable activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your wallet. From holiday lights to staying warm during harsh weather, many Jefferson City families are left with high energy bills. Luckily, there are easy ways to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our experts at Stieferman Heating Company Inc in Jefferson City created a list of ways you can save. Try them out and enjoy lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Change your thermostat to lower heating output at times when you’re asleep or not home. Three to five percent more energy is used when your furnace is set above 68 degrees, so try keeping your home at 68 degrees when you’re at home and awake, and reduce the temperature to 55-65 degrees at times when you’re away at work, out of town or sleeping to achieve lower utility bills.
2. Make sure you only wash when you have full loads.
Don’t do laundry until you can run full loads. This will save you money on water heating, water usage and on heat used for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than was really necessary, right? And, don’t forget: clearing out the lint trap after every load can save you up to $34 a year, according to PG&E.
3. Conduct a home energy audit.
A home energy audit can help you see the places where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use extra energy. The assessment can show you how to save on energy expenses, including long- and short-term energy-saving possibilities.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your HVAC ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are many areas in your home that may be letting cold air seep through. Simply tape heavy plastic over the windows, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks coming through doors and windows. Contact Stieferman Heating Company Inc to find out more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One of the simplest ways to achieve lower utility bills is to switch out your older, less efficient holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these energy efficient lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 40 holiday seasons in Jefferson City.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need to replace your furnace, consider an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save hundreds of dollars a year on annual heating bills versus older furnaces. Or, if it’s not quite time for a replacement, remember to schedule a service visit for your current furnace. A quick tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to work.
For more information on how you can lower your utility bills this winter, give Stieferman Heating Company Inc in Jefferson City a call at 573-635-3547.