The winter season brings a bunch of fun activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your pocketbook. From holiday lights to keeping your home cozy during harsh weather, many Auburn families experience high energy costs. Luckily, there are easy ways to decrease your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our professionals at Forster Heating in Auburn came up with a list of ways you can save. Try them out and see 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 reduce the temperature 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.
Don’t do laundry until you have enough for full loads. This will save you money on water heating, water usage and on heat required for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than actually needed, 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 extra energy. The assessment can show you ways to save as much as possible, including long- and short-term energy-saving solutions.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your HVAC ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are a number of areas in your home that may be allowing cold air in. Simply tape heavy plastic over the windows, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks around doors and windows. Contact Forster Heating to learn more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One of the simplest ways to receive lower utility bills is to switch out your older, less efficient holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these energy efficient lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can work for nearly 40 holiday seasons in Auburn.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need to upgrade your furnace, look into an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save significant amounts of money every year on annual heating bills over older furnaces. Or, if it’s not quite time for a replacement, remember to schedule a service visit for your current furnace. An easy 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 lower your utility bills this winter, give Forster Heating in Auburn a call at 530-885-8081.