As the winter season approaches, many homeowners look forward to coming home to their warm and cozy interiors. Although the heating season in Southern California is generally milder, that’s not to say it won’t be harsh on your savings. Since heat makes up more than 40 percent of your monthly utility bill, your energy expenses can significantly increase during this time of the year.
Fortunately, there are many ways you can stay toasty without paying a large sum. In this article, Air Products & Services, known for quality heating and AC troubleshooting system services, shares four ways to help you lower your heating expenses this winter.
1. Invest in a Smart Thermostat
One of the best investments you can make this winter is purchasing a smart thermostat. It automatically adjusts your home’s heating and cooling system, whether you’re at home or away. With this installed, you can save about 10 to 12 percent on heating costs and 15 percent on cooling. When you are not home, they can be programmed to change the temperature accordingly to ensure you’re not wasting energy.
2. Seal up Air Leaks in Your Home
Air leaks not only reduce the comfort of your home but also increase your energy expenses. Thus, it’s best to seal them up. Look for holes and gaps around the energy envelope where indoor air may escape and allow outdoor air to wreak havoc on your home’s comfort levels. These may be on your walls, windows, ceilings, doors, or even light fixtures. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you can save up to 15 percent on heating and cooling costs by sealing your home and adding insulation.
3. Replace Your HVAC System
If your heating or cooling system is nearing the end of its service life, it’s probably time for a furnace or air conditioning replacement. This is especially true for your heating system in the winter. The older your heating system is, the less efficient it will be. Thus, consider replacing your furnace with the same, more efficient unit (or a different heating system) before winter. You don’t want to be stuck with a faulty heater during the cold season after all.
4. Put Your Ceiling Fans to Use
You might think that ceiling fans are only useful in the summer. However, you can also utilize them in the winter to help you save on your energy expenses. Instead of using your ceiling fans in counterclockwise mode as you do in the summer months, get them to spin clockwise. This way, heat moves down and not up, helping you stay warm. For best results, keep the fan on the lowest setting.
At Air Products & Services, we are happy and determined to keep your home comfortable in the upcoming winter season. Count on our experienced team to provide top-quality HVAC services in Tarzana, CA, including heating and AC repair. To request a quote or schedule an appointment, call us today at (818) 989-2030, or fill out our online contact form.