Mild year-long climate is one of the biggest benefits to living in sunny San Antonio, but even South Texas isn’t immune to occasional cold spells. Being far more used to complaining about unbearable heat than chilly temperatures, it’s no surprise that most of us aren’t prepared when the temperatures outside dip below the average. While getting through a few weeks of sweater weather is no big deal, putting your home’s heating system into high gear without notice is a sure way to push up your monthly energy bill. To avoid the unexpected expense this winter, copy our neighbors to the north by following the four easy energy-saving tips below:
1. Fatten up the insulation. Whether your home’s insulation is too thin or too old, it never hurts to give it a quick update before some of the coldest weeks of the year make a comeback. When you’re ready to get started, visit the U.S. Department of Energy for a complete guide on do-it-yourself insulation.
2. Invest in a programmable thermostat. A great programmable thermostat will work hard to keep your energy bills low throughout the year. To get the biggest bang for your buck, look for models with custom calendar features. You’ll be able to tell your gadget what to do during the day, at night, when you’re on vacation and when you’re at work. For maximum savings in the winter, always set the dial at the lowest comfortable temperature. Even a few degrees can add up to hefty savings over time.
3. Get your HVAC system checked by a professional. Since you can’t always spot when your HVAC unit isn’t doing its job as well as it should, you can eventually end up losing a lot of money in wasted energy. If your system hasn’t been checked in the last year, now is the perfect time to schedule your inspection appointment.
4. Keep an eye on your windows. While shutting your windows when the weather outside takes a turn for the worse is a no-brainer, it’s not always as effective as you think. Invisible drafts and air leaks are some of the most common culprits behind unexplained spikes in energy bills. To rule them out, take on a weather-stripping project on your own or schedule service for sealing.
Need help making your heating system more efficient? Contact us at ABC Home & Commercial Services-San Antonio to learn more about our local HVAC services.