6 Ways to Get Lower Utility Bills this Winter

11/10/2014
The winter season brings tons of exciting activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your pocketbook. From holiday lights to keeping your home cozy in the middle of harsh weather, many Reeds Spring families have high energy expenses. Luckily, you can take some easy steps to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.

Our professionals at All Seasons Comfort Systems Inc in Reeds Spring came up with a list of ways you can save. Try them out and see 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 lower 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.

Hold on doing laundry until you can do full loads. This will help you save 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 find the places where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use excess energy. The assessment can show you ways to save the most, including long- and short-term energy-saving options.

4. Properly seal your leaks.

From your HVAC ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are plenty of areas in your home that may be letting in unwanted cold air. Simply tape heavy plastic over the windows, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks coming through doors and windows. Contact All Seasons Comfort Systems Inc to find out more about sealing your air ducts.

5. Use LED holiday lights.

One easy way to receive lower utility bills is to switch out your older holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these energy efficient lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 40 holiday seasons in Reeds Spring.

6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.

If you need a new furnace, consider an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save hundreds of dollars every year on annual heating bills compared to older furnaces. Or, if you’re not quite ready for a replacement, remember to schedule a routine maintenance visit for your current equipment. A quick 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 lower your utility bills this winter, give All Seasons Comfort Systems Inc in Reeds Spring a call at 417-739-4606.