It is quite normal to let your furnace operate for longer periods of time, especially during the coldest parts of winter. There are some homeowners who even need their heating systems working 24/7. That’s because no one wants to be in the cold when the temperature hits sub-zero.
Since your furnace is working overtime to keep everyone in your home comfortable, you shouldn’t be surprised to see your utility bills soar high. Having said that, there are few, easy steps you can take to lower your heating costs.
There are minor adjustments and cleaning tasks you can do to ensure your furnace works as efficiently as possible, but the best thing you can do for your heating system is to have it professionally maintained on a regular basis.
A reliable heating company in Plymouth, MN like Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is a great place to find the best HVAC technicians in the area.
Below are practical procedures to keep your heating bills to a minimum without compromising your family’s comfort.
Keep Your Furnace Clean
You can save up to 5 percent on your heating costs by simply keeping your furnace clean. Easy steps such as cleaning and lubricating mechanical parts can be advantageous to you. Not only does it help save on energy, it also helps clean the air that circulates throughout your home.
Manage Your Filters
This is probably the simplest but most effective way you can do to reduce your heating bills. Understand that clogged filters block the airflow which causes your furnace to work harder, using more fuel in the process. Clean or replace your filters regularly to avoid the accumulation of dust and dirt in your heating system.
Use the Sun’s Costless Heat
You can help the environment by utilizing the heat generated by the sun. Even when the outside temperature is freezing cold, the sun’s rays still deliver some heat into your home. This added heat helps reduce the need for your furnace to run.
You can get direct sunlight on the south side of your house, so keeping your curtains open during the day should help lower your heating bills. In addition, trim any shrubs or tree branches that block the sunlight around your windows to maximize the heat.
Put on Warm Clothes
You don’t have to put that much pressure on your furnace just to keep you comfortably warm. You can tone down the thermostat a little bit by putting on layers of thick clothes that help keep you warm. According to research, you can save 5 percent on your heating costs for every degree you drop your thermostat in the 60-degree to 70-degree range, which recommends a maximum setting of 68 degrees during the day.
Adjust the Thermostat
Also, if you’re away for an extended period or while you’re asleep, you can set the thermostat down to 55 degrees. This little penance can cut 5 percent to 20 percent from your heating bill. To maximize your savings, turn the temperature on your water heater down to 120 degrees, which is still safe and sanitary for most homes, as recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Use Fans
Instead of letting your furnace work like a horse, you can minimize your fuel consumption by making use of your fans to circulate heated air. Since hot air naturally rises, you can set your ceiling fan to low and allow it to force the warmer air to move around the room instead of having it trapped at the ceiling.
Prepare Your Windows
About 10 to 25 percent of your home’s heat loss is associated with windows. To minimize this issue, open curtains and shades on south-facing windows during the day when the sun is up to allow the sun’s heat to penetrate your home and warm it up. In the evening, keep the blinds and curtains closed to insulate your house and keep the heat inside. You can also place blankets over bare windows and drapes, especially at night when windows are not in use and the temperature is at its coldest.
How Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning Can Help
These simple steps can make your home more energy-efficient. For best results, it is highly recommended to have a qualified technician properly maintain your furnace. Our heating professionals at Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning have been factory-trained and certified to ensure your heating system operates at peak performance, which maximizes its efficiency.
Be one of our valued customers who continue to rely on us for their Minnetonka furnace repair or any other heating and cooling needs.