It can be difficult to find the right balance between a comfortable home temperature and an affordable utility bill. What some homeowners do not realize, however, is that making minor adjustments to your furnace can make a big difference and offer you both comfort and cost efficiency.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
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Adjusting the thermostat even a few degrees here and there can result in a cheaper home heating bill. When you make these adjustments during times when no one is home, no one even notices the difference. Installing a programmable thermostat allows you to pre-set these adjustments. You can schedule the thermostat to drop a few degrees at bedtime when cooler temperatures are actually ideal. You can also set the thermostat to drop when you are away during the day and then to increase to a comfortable temperature just before you get back home.
Change Your HVAC Filter Often
Experts recommend that you change your HVAC filter at least once per month for the best results. Homeowners with minimal allergies and no pets may be able to get away with a longer period of time between filter changes. When the HVAC filter fills up with dust and dirt, it forces the HVAC unit to work harder, thus resulting in a higher utility bill. Additionally, that same dust and debris is flowing into your household and can aggravate allergies. For the best results, always opt for a higher quality air filter that is designed specifically for optimal efficiency.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Preventative maintenance is also important in balancing efficiency with a comfortable room temperature. Not only do preventative maintenance checkups ensure that your unit is working as efficiently as possible, but it also can prevent costly breakdowns from occurring. Even minor preventative tasks like removing a filter clog can decrease your energy consumption by as much as five to 15 percent.
Use Alternative Heating Sources
Any steps that you can take to increase the amount of natural heat into your home means dollars saved on home heating costs. Open up the curtains if the sun is shining. Heating the home with a natural fireplace can also be both comfortable and cost-effective.
Preserve the Heat You Already Have
If you have broken window seals or poor insulation in your home, then you are wasting the heat that your furnace is generating. Check all of the windows in your home for any leaks and then seal them. Check doors for any cold drafts and place draft blockers. Keep in mind that even natural fireplaces can result in heat loss too. Frequently opening and closing the damper can allow the heat to escape. If you have a home fireplace but rarely use it to heat the house, then consider sealing it off.
Avoid sacrificing your home comfort levels in order to save a few dollars. Instead, focus on these minor adjustments that you can make to cut energy costs, all while still giving you a warm and cozy home to enjoy over the winter season.
