The cold season brings tons of fun activities and events, but it can also do a number on your wallet. From holiday lights to keeping your home cozy throughout harsh weather, many Delray Beach families experience high energy expenses. Luckily, there are easy ways to decrease your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our experts at Kilbourne Heating & AC in Delray Beach created a list of ways you can save. Try them out and experience lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Set your thermostat to lower heating output when you’re asleep or not home. Three to five percent more energy is consumed 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.
Don’t do laundry until you can run full loads. This will help you save on water heating, water usage and on heat required for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than was really necessary, right? And, remember: cleaning 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 spots where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use more energy. The assessment can explain 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 a number 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 coming through doors and windows. Contact Kilbourne Heating & AC to learn 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, less efficient 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 Delray Beach.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need to upgrade your furnace, look into an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save significant amounts of money a 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 furnace. 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 Kilbourne Heating & AC in Delray Beach a call at 561-287-7071.