Helpful Tips to Reduce Your Energy Cost in the Current Economic Climate

Are you looking to reduce your outgoing cash? We don’t blame you. You never know where your finances may be from one day to the next in the current economic climate. One way to lower monthly bills is to reduce your energy cost, and it is really not as difficult as you would think.

Not to mention, whether it is nearing the summer months or nearing the winter months, people are always looking to keep their utility bills low. Here are some helpful ways suggested by the experts at Veterans AC & Heat to help keep your energy costs down.

8 Easy Ways to Reduce your Energy Cost

Let’s face it; there is no substitute for care when it comes to our home’s working parts. All of the systems in the house need regular cleaning and service check-ups. In the meantime, here is a list of 8 easy ways to begin to reduce your energy cost.

Change the Filters

This is the one most people put off, and it can cause significant damage to your system. Make sure to check your air filters regularly. When air filters become clogged, they do not work as efficiently and, in turn, can cause your system to work harder and run more often. Replace your clogged air filters regularly; most filter packages suggest every month or every three months, depending on the filter brand you purchase.

Look for Leaks, Cracks, and Gaps to Fix

You could save more than 10 percent on your heating and air conditioning bill by sealing up cracks, gaps, and openings around your windows and doors. Make sure to replace weather strips around your windows and fill in cracks around door frames and windows with caulking. Another place to look for cracks and gaps is around pipes that enter your house through exterior walls. Repair leaky heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ducts to improve your heating and cooling systems’ efficiency and cut costs.

Insulate Your Attic

Did you know, insulating your attic correctly can be a big money saver? It doesn’t cost too much money, and it helps to take the draft out of your home, making it more comfortable in summer and winter.

Check Your Hot Water Heater Thermostat

Most manufacturers suggest setting your water heater temperature to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, according to the Department of Energy, 120 degrees Fahrenheit is a comfortable temperature for your water heating needs all year round. You could also consider an energy-efficient electric water heater. The energy-efficient electric water heater can save you up to 20% on your energy bill. Now, that is a significant saving.

Adjust Appliance Temperatures

Most people do not even think of regulating the temperature of appliances. But it is another place you can save money. It is best to set your refrigerator temperature between 37 and 40 degrees and your freezer to 5 degrees. Also, when your refrigerator is full, it does not work as hard to stay cold. And, it is a good idea to make sure you dust off appliance coils from your refrigerator and other appliances. Appliances work harder if the coils are dusty, and because they have to work harder, your energy bill will go up.

Check Your HVAC Thermostat

Another great habit to begin is changing your thermostat temperature when you leave for the day. During the summer months, raising the air conditioning 4-5 degrees warmer, and during the winter months, lower your heat temperature 4-5 degrees can reduce your annual heating and cooling costs by around 10%. A programmable thermostat works excellent; it can be set to stay home and away settings accordingly.

Turn Off the Lights

Like Mom always said, turning the lights off when you leave a room is an excellent habit to form. This simple routine adjustment can be an easy way to lower your bill. With that said, it is also best to turn off ceiling fans when you are not using the room.

Schedule Tune-ups and Cleanings

As stated earlier, a clean appliance works more efficiently than a dirty one. Making sure the machine runs efficiently by keeping it clean and scheduling tune-ups is the way to go. Dusty or poorly lubricated fans, soot buildup, flickering pilot lights, and loose fan belts can all raise your energy bill. 

Veterans AC & Heat Can Help You Reduce Your Energy Costs

At Veterans AC & Heat, we want to help you save money on your home bills. Giving your heating and air conditioning system regular tune-ups can save you a ton of money.

Let us help with your system! If you need a tune-up or an estimate on your HVAC system, contact Veterans AC & Heat.