Top 4 Ways to Improve Furnace Efficiency in the Winter
The days are getting shorter, the air is getting cooler—winter will be here before we know it! Are you the type of person who turns on your furnace at the first sign of a chill, or do you bundle up with socks and sweaters first? No matter your preference, you’ll be relying on your furnace to stay warm soon, which means you could see an increase on your monthly energy bill.
Save money each month—while still keeping your home nice and toasty—with these tips. Learn more below.
Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Why are you paying to heat the house when no one is at home? A programmable thermostat can put your furnace on a schedule that matches your daily routine. Lowering your home’s temperature by eight degrees for eight hours a day could reduce your energy bills by up to 10%! Keep your home’s temperature around 68°F when you’re at home, and program it to cool down while you’re at work or asleep.
Want to upgrade your thermostat? Our team can help! Check out our website to learn more about our thermostat installation services.
Check Windows and Doors for Any Air Leaks
Gaps in your doors and windows will allow all that warm air to escape, making your furnace work harder. To check if you’ve got a draft, carefully pass a lit candle around the edge of your windows and exterior doors. A gap or crack will cause the flame to flicker. Another effective way to check the seals is to close a dollar bill in your window or door—you shouldn’t be able to pull it out without much resistance.
Freshen Up Your HVAC Filters
A dirty filter forces your HVAC system to work much harder to keep air circulating throughout your home. This wastes energy, puts stress on your equipment, and leaves you with rooms that take forever to heat up or cool off. A dirty air filter also contributes to poor air quality, so make sure you’re changing your filters regularly.
Make Sure Your Home is Properly Insulated
Did you know that insulation loses its effectiveness over time? Proper insulation levels can go a long way to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, so if you suspect an issue—it might be time to have your insulation looked at. Always have insulation inspected and replaced by a licensed contractor, especially if your home was built before 1990.
Don’t forget to have your furnace tuned up before the winter chill sets in. Air Services Heating and Air Conditioning is here to help with all your heating and cooling needs! We proudly serve home and business owners in the Waterloo, IA area. Visit our website or call 319-287-5858 today.