Preliminary forecasts for this winter are projecting the winter to be a cold and long. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors’ Association (NEADA), home heating costs will rise by about 10.5% this coming winter due to a resurgence in energy prices globally. To help offset increasing costs, homeowners can reduce costs by ensuring their heaters are operating a prime efficiency. This is done by having an annual heating system maintenance servicing along with some other tasks. This article covers some simple things you can do to reduce your home heating costs.
Ductwork Repair
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Figures from Energy Star show that ductwork leaks account for 20 to 30% of heat loss in the average American home. Leaks in air ducts occur due to holes/spaces and poor connections throughout the duct system. As such, you should hire a professional to inspect your home’s duct network and undertake any necessary repairs.
Thermostat Adjustments
The Department of Energy (DOE) reckons that lowering your thermostat by 10 to 15% from its normal setting when you are away from home can cut your heating expenses by 10%. This simple trick can potentially save you a lot of money since the NEADA expects heating costs for the average American household to increase by about 28% this coming winter.
Get An Annual Tune-up
You can majorly reduce your home heating costs by scheduling a professional tune-up for your heating system. This will make sure that your system is working as efficiently as possible. It also ensures that your heater will not malfunction when it is extremely cold out. It needs to be done once a year and the fall season is the best time of year to do this. You don’t want just anyone working on your heater so be sure to get a hold of a reputable HVAC company.
Water Heater Adjustments
According to the DOE, water heater costs account for anything between 14 and 25% of the average American household heating bills. Still, most homeowners do not change the default settings of their water heaters (normally set at 140 °F). The DOE reckons that water heater temperature should be set at 120 °F. Take note this does not degrade bathing/showering or hot water usage experiences. In general, every 10 °F drop in temperature reduces water-heating costs by 3 to 5%. What’s more, installing an on-demand tankless water heater will reduce your heating costs even further.
Weatherstrips
Ensures your weatherstrips are in good condition. This is necessary because the spaces around doors and windows account for about 7 to 12% of heat loss in the average home during winter. Better yet, hire a certified home energy audit contractor to help you identify the areas that require attention so you can improve energy efficiency.
Plastic Film
You can lower your heating expenses by up to 14% simply by covering your windows and patio doors with plastic film. In fact, transparent plastic film is relatively inexpensive, easy to apply, remove and it does not damage windowpanes.
Insulation
Insulate your home with materials such as chopped cellulose to lower monthly home heating bill by 20 to 30%. At the same time, make sure the attic door is ringed by insulation material, lies flat, and closes tightly. If it does not close tightly, install a latch. Other areas that require insulation include crawl spaces, ceilings, and walls.
Seal Your Chimney
If your home has a chimney, winter proof it with an inflatable balloon to prevent cold air drafts from leaking indoors. You can purchase such a balloon online or from a home improvement store.
Conclusion
To save money on your home heating costs this coming winter, ensure your weatherstrips are in perfect condition, cover your windows and patio doors with plastic film, seal your chimney with an inflatable balloon, schedule an annual tune-up on your heater, and adjust your thermostat and water heater settings accordingly.
Heating System Maintenance Hopewell Township NJ
The winter doesn’t have to break your bank account. You also don’t have to keep your home ridiculously cold to achieve this. By following the above steps, you can save money and stay comfortable at the same time. These steps are easy to do and will take no time at all. Be sure to get your heater professionally serviced now before the start of the winter.
Get your heater ready for the winter by contacting Princeton Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer professional heating system maintenance that is conducted by our Nate-certified HVAC specialists. They have been trained to take care of your system by using the skills, knowledge and expertise that your system requires. This will save money on home heating costs. You can enjoy a heater that works as energy efficiently as possible. As an added benefit, you will stay nice and warm throughout the winter. We are among the few providers in NJ to hold a Carrier Presidents Award Dealer distinction.
We service Lambertville NJ 08530, Pennington NJ 08534, Titusville NJ 08560, New Hope PA 18938, Newtown PA 18940, Penns Park PA 18943, Pineville PA 18946, Washington Crossing PA 18977, Wycombe PA 18980 and surrounding areas.
