The winter months bring tons of enjoyable activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your wallet. From holiday lights to maintaining a warm home throughout harsh weather, many Justin families have high energy costs. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our team at Pepper AC & Htg Inc in Justin came up with a list of ways you can save. Try them out and experience lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Change your thermostat to lower heating output at times when you’re asleep or not home. Three to five percent more energy is required when your furnace is set above 68 degrees, so try keeping your home at 68 degrees when you’re at home and awake, and decrease to 55-65 degrees at times when you’re away at work, out of town or sleeping to achieve lower utility bills.
2. Make sure you only wash when you have full loads.
Put off doing laundry until you have enough for full loads. This will help save money on water heating, water usage and on heat needed for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than actually needed, right? And, keep in mind: cleaning out the lint trap after every load can save you up to $34 a year, according to PG&E.
3. Conduct a home energy audit.
A home energy audit can help you see the places where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use more energy. The assessment can show you how to save on energy expenses, including long- and short-term energy-saving possibilities.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your air ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are plenty of areas in your home that may be allowing cold air in. Simply cover windows with plastic, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks on doors and windows. Contact Pepper AC & Htg Inc to hear more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One easy way to achieve lower utility bills is to switch out your less efficient holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last nearly 40 holiday seasons in Justin.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need a new furnace, consider an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save up to $800 every year on annual heating bills versus older furnaces. Or, if you’re not quite ready for a replacement, remember to schedule a maintenance visit for your current equipment. An easy tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to do its job.
For more information on how you can reduce your utility bills this winter, give Pepper AC & Htg Inc in Justin a call at 940-202-1184.