Seven Tips For Increased Energy Efficiency During The Winter
In these uncertain economic times, it is more important than ever to maximize every dollar you spend. One way to do that is to save on your power bill during the winter by making your home as energy efficient as possible. The seven energy efficiency tips below will help you do exactly that.
1. Insulation
If you do not own a modern home constructed specifically to maximize energy efficiency, you should probably add extra insulation to areas such as your walls and attic. Common insulation materials include slag wool, cellulose, fiberglass, and foam. The Insulation Contractors Association of America, or ICAA, recommends that you use only materials with high R-values as certified by the American Society of Testing and Materials, or ASTM. Consequently, proper insulation can lower your space heating costs by anywhere from 10-50 percent per year.
2. Weather Stripping
Cold air can leak into your home during the winter months. This makes it more expensive to keep your family nice and toasty. The best way to discover where these air leaks are is to hire a professional for a home energy audit. The process requires specialized equipment such as infrared cameras and blower doors. It is not advisable to do it yourself. Once discovered, the areas can be sealed by:
- Felt
- Tape
- Foam sealant
- House wrap
- Caulk
- Drywall
- Reinforced vinyl
Weather stripping is most effective on dry surfaces, so you should take care of it before winter begins.
3. Programmable Thermostat
With a programmable thermostat, you can easily turn down the heat when you are not home and then turn it back up when you return. It sounds simple, but your heating costs could be reduced by 10 percent just by lowering the temperature a little when you are not home.
4. LED Lights
If there are any fluorescent light bulbs remaining in your house, replace them with modern LED bulbs. They can save a ton of energy. According to the US Department of Energy, LED bulbs are 75 percent more efficient than traditional lighting solutions. In addition, LED lights are also more durable than fluorescent or incandescent lighting. If you’re worried about forgetting to turn the lights off, some LED lights can be turned off with a click of your smartphone. You’ll never accidentally leave them on again!
5. Energy Efficient Doors And Windows
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, energy efficient doors and windows can reduce a homeowner’s energy consumption up to 12 percent each year. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing doors and windows, as they are certified to prevent heat loss.
6. Heater Maintenance
Many heating professionals offer heater tune-up services that ensure your heater is running as efficiently as it can. The process generally includes inspection, cleaning, and the replacement of any components that are not working as well as they should. The flue system, electrical wiring, control box, fan belt, drain lines, vent system, and heat exchanger can all make your power bill go up during the winter when they are not maintained.
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7. Water Heater
If your water heater is at least 10 years old, it is time to replace it with a more energy efficient one. Modern water heaters heat only the water you need heated rather than the entire tank. Therefore, investing in a new water heater saves you money in the process.
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There is nothing better than having reduced home heating costs without compromising your comfort levels. When you follow the above steps, you will notice just how much your energy bills have been reduced. Furthermore, these methods have been proven to work and appreciated by many homeowners who have implemented them.
Since your heater is fundamental at keeping your home warm in the winter, it is imperative that your heating system have a professional tune-up. An annual heater tune-up will make it more efficient and far more effective at what it is supposed to do. Be sure to contact SOS XTREME Comfort® for all of your home’s heating needs. Our HVAC technicians are certified, knowledgeable, and experienced. They will be able to get your heating system working at peak efficiency. Not only do we offer exceptional HVAC services, but we also offer affordable propane delivery services and heating oil delivery services. Click here or, give us a call at 845-351-4700.
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