The winter months bring a bunch of fun activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your pocketbook. From holiday lights to staying warm in the middle of harsh weather, many Pacheco families have high energy bills. Luckily, there are steps you can take to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our experts at Clean Air HVAC in Pacheco created 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 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, 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 determine the places where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use extra energy. The assessment can show you how to save on energy expenses, including long- and short-term energy-saving solutions.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your heating and cooling ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are many 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 Clean Air HVAC 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 lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can work for nearly 40 holiday seasons in Pacheco.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need a new furnace, consider an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save significant amounts of money yearly 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 furnace. A simple 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 achieve lower utility bills this winter, give Clean Air HVAC in Pacheco a call at 925-233-6238.