Take The Chill Off: 3 Tips To Lower Your Heating Bill This Winter

Winter will be here before you know it, which means the temperatures are about to dip into the uncomfortable range. Keeping warm during the winter can put a real damper on your monthly budget. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to heat your home more efficiently. Here are three suggestions to help take the bite out of higher heating bills this winter.

Improve Heating Efficiency

If your heating system isn't running efficiently, you're going to notice a couple of problems. First, your home won't get as warm as it should. Second, your heating bill is going to continue rising. To make sure your heating system is running smoothly this winter, take care of a few problems right now.

Get a Tune-Up

One of the best ways to avoid heater problems this winter is to have your system serviced before the cold weather arrives. Your service technician will be able to identify – and repair – any defects that might have led to winter malfunctions. While your service technician is out, it's a good idea to have your ducts cleaned, as well.

Replace the Filter

This might seem like an overly simple solution to heater problems, but it's not. A dirty filter can decrease the amount of airflow through your home, and cause dirt to get sucked back up through the heater. Prevent problems by replacing your furnace filter before winter arrives.

Adjust Your Thermostat

If you're used to keeping your thermostat dialed in to the 70s, you may be in for a shock this winter. You can lower your heating bill this winter by lowering your thermostat. According to the US Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% on your heating bills just by turning your thermostat down about 7-10 degrees. Worried about the chill? Try using a humidifier in your home this winter. The added moisture will make your home feel several degrees warmer.

Fix the Problems in Your Home

You might not realize this, but your home could be robbing you of valuable warm air. Before winter arrives, take the time to fix the problems that are preventing your home from staying as warm as it should. Apply fresh caulking around all your windows, and install new weather stripping on all your exterior-facing doors. The caulking and weather stripping will help keep the warm air in, and the cold air out.

The cold temperatures will be here before you know it. Make sure your home is ready for the weather change. Use the tips provided here to help keep your home warm and your heating bill low this winter. Contact a company like Thermotech Inc for more tips.