Tips to Stay Warm While Reducing your Heating Costs This Winter

Chilly temperatures in Northern Arizona are just around the corner. Wondering how you and your family will stay toasty warm all winter long? Energy Savings Heating and Cooling is bringing you the best tips to winterize your home, learn from the Pro’s:

Don’t Skip the Prep Work
Start with your doors and windows; check the current state of the caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows and replace if needed, this will seal out cold air and help save on heating expenses. Installing more insulation in your home will also save energy costs. Don’t forget the fireplace damper! When your fireplace is not in use, make sure the damper is set to the closed position. An open damper is just like having a window or door open allowing heated air to escape the house. Limit the use of your fireplace in colder climates as experts agree that a typical fireplace loses more heat than it generates. If you are a fireplace enthusiast during the winter consider installing an insert which will make better use of the heat generated in your fireplace.

Get the Right Help
Most Utility Companies offer a home energy audit for free. It’s best to schedule an appointment before winter to make sure your furnace and appliances are running as efficiently as possible.

Reconsider Your Utility Plan
Switch to a Utility company budget plan. A utility plan will average-out your monthly payments. You will still spend the same amount per year, but you won't get hit with any huge winter heating bills.

Turn Up the Tech
Install a programmable thermostat and you can automatically lower temperature settings, especially at night when you're sleeping and during the day while at work. The Department of Energy says that setting the thermostat 5 degrees lower for just 8 hours per day can save up to 5% in energy costs. Used properly, it can save you up to $200.00 per year.

Invest When It’s Important
Yes, a high efficiency furnace, boiler or heat pump can cost you upfront but investing in energy efficient equipment will actually save you money in the long run. Also consider purchasing a maintenance plan so that you can have peace of mind that your equipment will work when you need it most. If you can’t afford a new system or maintenance plan, at least have your existing system cleaned and serviced before each heating season.

More Information
Heating Repair in Northern Arizona
Heating Maintenance in Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona HVAC Contractor