Even though we’ve had an extraordinarily warm winter in northern Minnesota, we’re certain that you’ve still been running your heating unit. Whether you have a furnace, boiler, or radiator system, getting your utility bill at the end of each month is likely a source of discomfort.
Here are five ways that you can reduce your heating bill and save a little extra money in 2024:
1. Keep your blinds closed
Unless the sun is shining right down onto your window, it’s likely only going to be a huge source for drafts. Keeping blinds closed will help decrease the amount of cold air seeping in through the windows, especially if you have older ones.
Conversely, the sunny days will let in natural heat, keeping your home warm without the use of your heating unit!
2. Set a temperature schedule for your home
Your home doesn’t need to be as warm when you are not there or sleeping. Remembering to lower your thermostat before you leave for work or go to bed will ensure that you aren’t unnecessarily heating your home and literally throwing money out the window.
The cooler you can keep your home as needed, the less your heating system will run!
3. Install a smart thermostat
Maintaining a schedule could be extremely unrealistic depending on what you have going on in your life. Smart thermostats are designed to tackle this. You’ll be able to set a schedule on the thermostat directly or even from an app on your phone to ensure your home is only being heated as needed.
Here are some of the best smart thermostats according to the 2024 Buyers Guide!
4. Get your insulation checked
Bad insulation can cause your utility bills to skyrocket. Because of drafty doors, windows, attics, crawlspaces, etc. and air seeping directly through the walls, your heating system could be kicking on near constantly trying to maintain the warm temperature of your home.
Not only is this bad for your bank account, but it’s also hard on your heating system (and cooling system in the summer). A machine that’s running constantly is going to break down far faster than one that’s able to kick on less frequently. Getting your insulation replaced is a big and expensive project, but it will have a huge impact on your utility bill and the longevity of your HVAC system.
5. Call for HVAC maintenance
An HVAC system that’s running well runs efficiently. Just a few things that can hike up those utility bills include, “wear and tear decreases energy, and loose belts decrease airflow. In addition, dirty condenser coils increase your energy bills while dirty burners cause poor combustion.” Learn more here! It can also keep your heating and cooling units running better longer, saving you from an expensive repair or replacement further down the line.
The more regularly you can get an HVAC technician in your area out to your residence or business, the better your system will run and the more money you’ll be able to save.
Schedule a heating service with AG O’Brien
Ready to have an HVAC technician come out for heating maintenance service? Contact us to get your appointment scheduled!
