6 Ways to Get Lower Utility Bills this Winter

November 10, 2014

The winter months bring tons of exciting activities and events, but it can also do a number on your budget. From holiday lights to maintaining a warm home throughout harsh weather, many Northglenn families are left with high energy costs. Luckily, there are steps you can take to decrease your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.

Our team at Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Northglenn put together a list of ways you can save. Try them out and see lower utility bills this winter season.

1. Adjust your thermostat.

Set your thermostat to lower heating output when you’re asleep or not home. Three to five percent more energy is required when your furnace is set above 68 degrees, so try keeping your home at 68 degrees when you’re at home and awake, and decrease to 55-65 degrees at times when you’re away at work, out of town or sleeping to achieve lower utility bills.

2. Make sure you only wash when you have full loads.

Put off doing laundry until you can run full loads. This will save you money on water heating, water usage and on heat required for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than you have to anyway, right? And, keep in mind: cleaning the lint trap after every load can save you up to $34 a year, according to PG&E.

3. Conduct a home energy audit.

A home energy audit can help you see the places where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use extra energy. The assessment can show you how to save as much as possible, including long- and short-term energy-saving options.

4. Properly seal your leaks.

From your HVAC ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are many areas in your home that may be letting cold air seep through. Simply cover drafty windows with a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks on doors and windows. Contact Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. to hear more about sealing your air ducts.

5. Use LED holiday lights.

One easy way to receive lower utility bills is to switch out your older holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these energy efficient lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can work for nearly 40 holiday seasons in Northglenn.

6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.

If you need to replace your furnace, think about purchasing an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save up to $800 every year on annual heating bills over older furnaces. Or, if it’s not quite time for a replacement, remember to schedule a routine maintenance visit for your current furnace. An easy tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to operate.

For more information on how you can achieve lower utility bills this winter, give Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Northglenn a call at 303-452-4146.