What can I do during winter months to lower my energy bills?

December 21, 2018

Whether you appreciate winter or prefer the warmer months in Cottonwood & Prescott, many of us make adjustments to ensure our home’s temperature keeps us comfortable. This can have a big impact on your energy bills, but there are steps you can take to reduce those energy costs.

  • Check weather stripping – Over time, the seals around your windows and doors can crack or become weathered. Walk around your home to identify any drafts that should be addressed.
  • Make use of your blinds – If your windows have blinds, they can be helpful in keeping your house warm. Keep them open during the day when the sun is out, and make sure to close them at the end of the day, so the warmer air doesn’t escape.
  • Change your filter – Check your filter routinely to see if it needs to be changed. We advocate at least once every three months, but that period of time can vary from house to house.
  • Install a programmable thermostat – They may seem like just a simple way to make sure your home keeps warm, but programmable thermostats can also save you money! You can fix temperatures to be cooler when you are away from the home or sleeping. Using your heat more efficiently helps lower your bill.
  • Add insulation to your attic – Check to see if you have an adequate amount of insulation. Because heat rises, insulation in your attic is a great tool to lower the chances of heat escaping.
  • Book routine maintenance – Just like we visit the doctor to get checkups, your heating system needs to have checkups, too. Hiring experts to clean and maintain your system will verify that your system is operating effectively and efficiently. They can also catch small issues that could end up as more costly repairs if ignored.
  • Assess your HVAC system – If it seems like your monthly heating costs are continually increasing—even with your efforts to improve efficiency—it might be time to consider a replacement heating system. An expert at Connolly Electric & Mechanical can help you examine the performance of your HVAC system and walk through the selection of newer, more efficient models.

Not only will these steps lower the amount of money you are spending on your energy bills, but many of them can help your heating system run more efficiently. More efficient energy use also supports the health of your equipment, which means a longer life for your HVAC system.

If you need routine maintenance on your heating system or would like an expert to provide more tips on reducing energy costs—we’ve got you covered. Give Connolly Electric & Mechanical in Cottonwood & Prescott a call to start down the right path. You can reach us at 928-251-4327 or book an appointment with us online.