Tips to Boost Your Home’s Energy Efficiency in Winter

With winter on the way, you might be looking at your energy bills with dread. The cold months often bring an increase in electricity or natural gas costs, depending on what fuel source you use to heat your home and hot water. But don’t worry—with a suitable approach, you can control your winter energy efficiency and save some serious cash. Here’s how to optimize your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank.

Book Fall Furnace Maintenance

Your HVAC system is like a car—it runs easier when well-maintained. Booking annual preventative maintenance before winter arrives boosts your system’s performance and can save you up to 5% on energy costs. In addition to helping your HVAC equipment run more efficiently, this regular check can reveal any hidden issues. Identifying and fixing these issues early prevents unexpected failures and more costly repair bills mid-season.

Consider Replacing Your Current Furnace

If your furnace is more than 10 years old and having problems, it may be time for a new one. Antiquated systems can be a substantial financial burden, costing you more in energy and repairs than they’re worth. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency Energy Star®-certified model can lower your utility bills by as much as 40%. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more consistently comfortable indoor environment when your heating equipment meets today’s standards.

Fine-Tune Your Thermostat

Remember those hot summer days when you programmed your thermostat to 78 degrees to save on costs? Well, that setting won’t do you any favors in the chilly winter season. Make the most of your thermostat for the season by setting it to 70 degrees or  a lower temperature. Every degree you lower the temperature can save you upward of 3% on your energy costs.

Moreover, consider buying a smart programmable thermostat you can set and leave alone. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices permit you to control your home’s temperature remotely. The most advanced learning models make automatic adjustments based on your habits, helping you be cozy while saving electricity when you’re away or sleeping.

Change the Air Filter

The furnace air filter impacts how efficiently your HVAC system operates. A dirty, clogged filter forces a heating and cooling system to work harder to circulate air, escalating energy consumption. To prevent this from happening, check the filter monthly and replace it every 1-3 months as a cost-effective and simple way to improve winter energy efficiency.

Evaluate Your Air Registers

The little details count. Occasionally dusting your supply and return registers removes hair, dirt and other blockages that impede airflow. Once clean, be certain that your curtains, rugs and furniture aren’t blocking the vents. Maintaining an unobstructed path for warm air to circulate makes a big difference in your home’s comfort and energy usage this winter.

Remove Drafts in Your Home

Even slight drafts can put undue strain on your heating and cooling system. Carry out a sweep of your home to locate and seal any air leaks. These are easiest to detect on chilly, windy days that pull the heat out through gaps and cracks. Place weatherstripping and caulk around doors and windows, and apply spray foam around plumbing, vents and wiring penetrations to prevent costly air leaks right away.

Add More Insulation in Your Home

The attic is the most convenient place to add insulation to an existing home. More insulation on the attic floor means less heat loss through the ceiling, making it easier for your home heating system to maintain a comfortable temperature. But insulation isn’t just for your attic—you can also insulate pipes, ductwork and electrical outlets on exterior walls to improve energy efficiency.

Consider Zoning

If your home has multiple levels or wings, you could benefit from using a zoned HVAC system. This involves putting dampers in the ductwork and installing multiple thermostats that allow you to independently control the temperature in distinct sections of your home. You may heat the ground floor during the day and the upstairs bedrooms at night, conserving energy by only paying to heat chosen sections of your home when you need them.

Opt for a Humidifier

Winter air is infamously dry. You could combat this with portable humidifiers throughout your living space, but there’s a more effective way. Use a whole-house humidifier to work in coordination with your HVAC. Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so a whole-house humidifier promotes a more comfortable interior without increasing the thermostat.

Work with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Winter Prep in Fort Lauderdale

If you’re looking to enhance your home’s winter energy efficiency in Fort Lauderdale, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to assist. Our ACE-certified technicians offer efficient, long-lasting solutions to all your comfort challenges, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

If you’re not thoroughly pleased with our performance, you can trust us to make it right. Call 954-736-4314 today so the team at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can make a substantial difference in your life and sense of comfort in the colder season.

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