The cold season brings tons of fun activities and events, but it can also do a number on your wallet. From holiday lights to keeping your home cozy during harsh weather, many York families are left with high energy bills. Luckily, there are steps you can take to decrease your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our professionals at Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning in York created a list of ways you can save. Try them out and enjoy lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Set 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 decrease 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.
Put off doing laundry until you have enough for full loads. This will help save 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, keep in mind: 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 determine the spots where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use more energy. The assessment can show you how to save the most, including long- and short-term energy-saving options.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your heating and cooling ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are plenty of areas in your home that may be letting in unwanted cold air. Simply tape heavy plastic over the windows, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks around doors and windows. Contact Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning to find out more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One easy way to get 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 York.
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 every year on annual heating bills compared to older furnaces. Or, if you’ve made a replacement recently, remember to schedule a routine maintenance visit for your current furnace. An easy tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to do its job.
For more information on how you can achieve lower utility bills this winter, give Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning in York a call at 717-383-4479.