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With the winter season now in full swing, it also means higher energy costs to keep your home cozy and comfortable. But what if we told you following seven simple tips could help you lower your energy bill by up to 10% over the course of the year. Who doesn’t want to save money? That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the easiest ways to save on your energy bill and reap the savings for years to come.
According to Energy Star, the average American household spends more than $900 each year on heating and cooling. Following these money saving tips can make the savings stack up, and have a big impact on the family budget.
1. Open Your Window Dressings
Even on the coldest days of the year, direct sunlight can generate heat through a window. On sunny days, let the light in. Plus, it’s free! Just make sure to close them again when the sun goes down, or a day is particularly overcast. In these cases, your blinds and curtains can help act as insulators to keep cold air out and warm air in.
2. Beef Up Your Insulation
If your attic, crawlspace, doors or windows aren’t properly insulated, your heating system works twice as hard to keep your home comfortable. The harder your unit works, the more it costs you. Did you know that foam insulation can settle in as little as one year? That’s why it is important to ensure that your insulation is working for you. Additionally, if your home was built in the 70s or earlier, its important to have someone come look at it, since the quality of insulation has really improved since then. Having comprehensive insulation can make a big difference in your energy costs.
3. Seal Doors and Windows
If if well-insulated, you should still seal your windows and doors. You don’t even have to be a DIY expert to make it happen. Replace cracked or worn weather strips, and seal any cracks, holes or gaps around windows to prevent any cold air from seeping in or warm air from escaping.
4. Set Your Thermostat for Winter
To get the most out of your thermostat, all you need to do is use the energy-saving function of the programmable or smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow to set a variety of temperature preferences each day. We recommend 68 degrees while you’re home, and lowering it about 10 degrees at night or when you’re gone. Smart thermostats take it even a step further, and program your thermostat for you. They learn your patterns and automatically adjust the temperature for maximum efficiency and energy savings. You can also program them remotely, get live performance alerts, and even cover the digital display with a custom screensaver. You can also use them to control your home’s lights, locks, and even some appliances. If you’re interested in upgrading, you can check out the Tran ComfortLink II XL1050 or ask your specialist at Air Solutions to recommend the best thermostat for you.
5. Create Climate Zones
This step is relatively simple. You direct warm air to the rooms you use most. Simply close the vents in the rooms you use less often. This forces your heater to direct air to where you will use it most. You can also have an HVAC specialist at Air Solutions install a Climate Zone System, such as the Train ComfortLink II Zoning System. Trane uses the exclusive motorized dampers inside your ductwork to open and close in partial increments. This means that heated (or cooled) air is directed where needed, providing maximum comfort for the lowest cost.
6. Run Your Ceiling Fan Clockwise in Winter
This really works! The little switch on your ceiling fan isn’t just for show. Running your fan clockwise in winter circulates the warm air that rises back down to where you can feel it. Running it counterclockwise in the summer has the opposite effect, keeping you cooler.
7. Upgrade to a High Efficient HVAC System
If your HVAC system is more than ten years old, it won’t have the energy efficient SEER rating that is now standard on all units. You can save up to 62% in energy costs with a more efficient system. Talk with a Trane Comfort Specialist™ at Air Solutions about upgrading to an ultra-efficient Trane unit today.
