Ways to Increase Your Furnace’s Energy Efficiency
With winter on the way, you may be eyeing your energy bills with dread. The chilly months often bring an increase in electricity or natural gas costs, depending on what fuel source you use to heat your home and hot water. But don’t fret—with the right approach, you can control your winter energy efficiency and save some serious cash. Here’s how to fine-tune your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system to keep your home pleasant without draining your finances.
Book Fall Furnace Maintenance
Your climate control system is like a car—it runs easier when well-maintained. Arranging annual preventative maintenance before winter arrives enhances your system’s efficiency and can save you up to 5% on energy costs. In addition to helping your HVAC equipment function more efficiently, this scheduled check can detect any lurking issues. Identifying and fixing these concerns early prevents unexpected failures and more costly repair bills mid-season.
Consider Replacing Your Current Furnace
If your furnace is more than 10 years old and experiencing malfunctions, it could be the right time for an upgrade. Old systems can be a significant hit to your wallet, costing you more in energy and repairs than they’re worth. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency Energy Star®-certified model can reduce your energy costs by as much as 40%. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more consistently relaxing indoor environment when your heating system furnace meets today’s standards.
Fine-Tune Your Thermostat
Remember those sweltering summer days when you adjusted the thermostat to 78 degrees to save money? Well, that setting won’t do you any favors in the winter. Adjust your thermostat for the season by adjusting it to 70 degrees or lower. Every degree you drop the temperature can save you upward of 3% on your energy costs.
Better yet, consider buying a smart programmable thermostat you can set and not think about. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices permit you to adjust your home’s temperature remotely. The most advanced learning models make automatic adjustments based on your habits, helping you stay comfortable while saving power when you’re away or sleeping.
Replace the Air Filter
Your furnace air filter influences how efficiently your HVAC system functions. A dirty, clogged filter forces the HVAC system to work harder to circulate air, increasing energy consumption. To prevent this from happening, check the filter monthly and replace it every 1-3 months as a budget-friendly and simple way to improve winter energy efficiency.
Check Your Air Registers
The little details make a difference. Occasionally dusting your supply and return registers eliminates hair, dirt and other blockages that hinder airflow. Once clean, ensure your curtains, rugs and furniture don’t block the vents. Maintaining an unobstructed path for warm air to circulate makes a big difference in your home’s comfort and energy usage this winter.
Seal Leaks to Prevent Drafts in Your Home
Even slight drafts can put excessive strain on your home heating system. Perform a sweep of your home to spot and seal any air leaks. These are easiest to detect on freezing, windy days that draw the heat out through gaps and cracks. Apply weatherstripping and caulk around doors and windows, and apply spray foam around plumbing, vents and wiring penetrations to stop costly air leaks in their tracks.
Increase Insulation in Your Home
The attic is the simplest place to add insulation to an existing home. More insulation on the attic floor means reduced heat loss through the ceiling, making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain a pleasant temperature. But insulation isn’t only for your attic—you can also insulate pipes, ductwork and electrical outlets on exterior walls to boost energy savings.
Consider Zoning
If your home has multiple levels or wings, you may gain advantages from setting up a zoned HVAC system. This involves placing dampers in the ductwork and installing multiple thermostats that permit you to independently control the temperature in distinct sections of your home. You might heat the ground floor during the day and the upstairs bedrooms at night, conserving energy by only paying to heat chosen sections of your home when you need them.
Choose a Humidifier
Winter air is typically extremely dry. You could tackle this with multiple humidifiers throughout your home, but there’s a more effective way. Set up a whole-house humidifier to work in tandem with your furnace. Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so a whole-house humidifier encourages a cozier interior without raising the thermostat.
Partner with Winnipeg Supply Service Experts for Winter Prep in Winnipeg
If you’re looking to enhance your home’s winter energy efficiency in Winnipeg, Winnipeg Supply Service Experts is here to assist. Our certified technicians offer prompt, long-lasting solutions to all your comfort issues, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
If you’re not happy with our work, you can rely on us to make it right. Call 204-800-0613 today so the technicians at Winnipeg Supply Service Experts can make a meaningful difference in your life and sense of comfort this winter.
