7 Suggestions to Lower Your Heating Bill in Columbia This Winter

Your house is probably at the top of the list of your most valued investments. It supports you financially through improving equity, and it’s a place to enjoy with your family and develop memorable moments, too. During the winter, you might also be experiencing rising utility costs. 

As a result, finding methods to lower your heating bill in Birmingham without giving up comfort can appear challenging. 

As far as energy efficiency, residences are similar to cars. Some guzzle energy while others drink it gradually. Regardless of what sort of home you have, there are methods to stop the discomfort this winter. The Experts are here with seven suggestions to help your family stay warm without driving up your energy bill. 

1. Get a New Your Air Filter

It’s the most cost-effective recommendation out there. It’s also the best method to keep your heater running smoothly throughout the winter. 

The model of filter and seasonal elements influence how frequently you should replace it. Soaring allergen counts, pets and residence size might also impact its life span. Typically, fiberglass filters should be changed monthly. Pleated styles made with thicker material may make it three months or longer. 

“It’s really the major thing folks forget about,” said Jim Hughes, senior manager of education and training at Service Experts. “The more loaded up the filter is, the less air is able to be filtered through it and actually add warmth to the residence. A clogged filter makes your furnace work harder.” 

2. Schedule Annual HVAC Service

It’s standard to have a technician stop by your house in the spring for AC service. That way, your air conditioner is prepared for the heat. 

But don’t neglect to schedule an appointment for furnace service before it gets cold too. 

Among other procedures, an inspection commonly includes: 

  • Checking thermostat settings 
  • Cleaning and greasing internal parts 
  • Inspecting system shutdown and startup processes 

A tune-up helps lessen the possibility of dealing with an emergency repair in the middle of a cold snap. Some reports have found as many as 75% of “no heat” calls could have been avoided with regular service. 

3. Examine Windows and Doors for Cracks

Windows and doors are a main entry point for cold air. Sealing window and door frames is an cost effective approach to help keep cold air where it belongs. 

Here’s one test that Hughes recommends. 

Close a door. Can you see any light? If that’s what’s happening, it’s not entirely sealed. Changes or weather-stripping may be needed. 

If your house has single-pane windows, you should think about a dual-pane improvement. 

Many homeowners insulate single-pane windows with plastic sheeting. 

It’s not a bad option, but dual-pane windows provide superior insulation for keeping cold air out. 

When you add double-pane windows, your energy savings could be 25% or better. 

Man caulking the windows in home

4. Limit Use of Vented Appliances

If you need the exhaust fan during cooking, Hughes advises against leaving it running for a long time. 

The same holds true for the dryer. Don’t permit it to work after your clothes are dry. 

Any venting appliance or exhaust fan expels heated air out and increases cold air. Running these appliances all the time will require your HVAC system to use more energy to handle the avoidable cold. 

5. Look at Your Home’s Perimeter for Cracks

Examine your residence’s exterior. This is the boundary that protects your residence from the weather. If your home has a basement, watch for moving cobwebs or cold coming in near the edges. 

Polyurethane sealant and other solutions can be used to mend basement walls allowing air into your residence. Another cost-effective tip is to get foam seals for fixture undersides, such as ceiling fans, overhead lights or wall outlets. 

They’re fast to install and are great at stopping cold air in the winter. 

6. Measure Insulation Levels in Your Attic 

It’s worth ensuring that you have thick enough insulation levels 

Hughes recommends looking at the ENERGY STAR® zone map to find the suitable R-value for your residence’s walls and attic space. This recommendation is formulated on the geographic spot where you live. 

7. Consider Our Advantage Program™ 

Winter could be rough for homeowners with old systems. 

If your furnace is not working right or in need of major fixes, there’s a fair chance you’re not set to spend thousands on a modern system. 

That’s why we have our Advantage Program. It helps homeowners like you prevent costly repairs through a low monthly fee. 

We’ll also put in an energy-efficient system in your residence. Plus our pro technicians will fix and tune it up for you without any added out-of-pocket fee 

Request an Appointment with Us Now 

Make your Birmingham house more energy efficient with expert support from Service Experts

For more information about our Advantage Program or to request an appointment for HVAC service, call us at 205-267-0023 or contact us online today.