The cold season brings tons of exciting activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your wallet. From holiday lights to staying warm in the middle of harsh weather, many Georgetown families experience high energy expenses. Luckily, you can take some easy steps to decrease your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our experts at Miller Climate Control LLC in Georgetown created a list of ways you can save. Try them out and see lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Program 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.
Put off doing laundry until you can run 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 was really necessary, right? And, keep in mind: 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 excess energy. The assessment can show you how to save on energy expenses, 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 allowing cold air in. Simply cover drafty windows with a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks on doors and windows. Contact Miller Climate Control LLC to find out more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One of the easiest ways to achieve lower utility bills is to switch out your older, less efficient holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LEDs use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 40 holiday seasons in Georgetown.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need to replace your furnace, look into an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save significant amounts of money yearly on annual heating bills over older furnaces. Or, if you’re not quite ready for a replacement, remember to schedule a service visit for your current furnace. A simple tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to work.
For more information on how you can achieve lower utility bills this winter, give Miller Climate Control LLC in Georgetown a call at 512-937-2001.