How To Save Money This Winter

by Len Sciulli Owner of Len Sciulli & Sons Heating & Air Conditioning

Here are a few simple steps you can take to cut your heating bill down to size.

Bundle Up & Lower Your Thermostat

It is nice to wander around the house in shorts and a t-shirt, but you will pay more for it in the winter. By wearing a sweater or sweatshirt, you might find yourself just as comfortable. Even a slight downward adjustment of the thermostat in the winter has a big impact on utilities.

Use Programmable Thermostats

Using a programmable setback thermostat will help to avoid forgetting after changing the thermostat. Plus, you can program the thermostat to restore the temperature just before you get out of bed and just before you get home.

Lower Temperatures More Overnight & When You’re Out

Overnight, add an extra blanket and set the temperature back a couple of degrees to save more money. Of course, set the temperature back when no one’s home.

Seal Air Leaks

Walk around the outside of your home and look for plumbing and electrical penetrations through the walls. If any are not well-caulked, add extra sealant. Don’t forget to weather-strip and/or caulk doors and windows.

Len Sciulli - Owner of Len Sciulli & Sons Heating & Air Conditioning

Reduce Fireplace Heat Loss

If you have a fireplace that is not in use, you should seal the flue. Even closed, fireplace flues are the source of a lot of air leaks. If the fireplace is used, add custom fitted tempered glass doors and seal the edges.

Tune Up Your Heating System

Combustion furnaces and boilers require annual maintenance to operate at peak efficiency. Burners, for example, fall out of adjustment over the course of a heating season, wasting fuel. Heat pumps need maintenance twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, so they will perform optimally during the periods of greatest use. Beyond saving money, annual service is a safety issue for combustion heating systems. Don’t risk your family’s safety or waste your money.

Upgrade Your Heating System

If your system is older than 20 years, it’s time to consider replacing it. Replacing the unit with a higher efficiency unit will improve your comfort and reduce your heating costs. You may even be able to qualify for an energy tax credit! Almost all of these are easy and inexpensive measures that you can take to lower your energy consumption (which is great for the environment) as well as your heating bills. Have a happy, healthy & safe winter!