As the temperatures drop in the WA area, heating bills tend to rise. However, staying warm doesn’t have to mean paying more. With over 21 years of experience as your local property management experts, we've gathered some proven strategies to help you stay comfortable this winter while keeping your energy costs in check.
Maximize Your Thermostat's Efficiency Your thermostat plays a crucial role in managing your heating costs. According to the Department of Energy, lowering your thermostat by 7-10°F for 8 hours a day could save you up to 10% on heating each year. Set it to 68°F when you're at home and active and reduce it when you're asleep or away.
Pro tip: A programmable thermostat can automate these adjustments, making it even easier to save.
Seal Leaks and Prevent Drafts Even small gaps in your home can result in significant heat loss. Common places to check include:
Windows and door frames
Electrical outlets on exterior walls
Cable and phone line entry points
Baseboards and crown molding
Simple fixes like adding weatherstripping, door sweeps, and outlet gaskets can have a big impact. For a quick DIY test, light an incense stick and hold it near potential draft spots – if the smoke wavers, there's a draft.
Optimize Your Heating System Get the most out of your heating system by following
these tips:
keep vents and radiators unobstructed by furniture or drapes
Run ceiling fans on low speed in a clockwise direction to circulate warm air
Open curtains during the day to let in sunlight and warm up your space
Close curtains at night to provide an extra layer of insulation
Everyday Habits That Save Small adjustments to your routine can lead to big savings:
Use rugs on bare floors to keep the warmth in
Reverse your ceiling fans to help push warm air down
Close doors to unused rooms to conserve heat
Add extra blankets to beds and lower the thermostat at night
Take advantage of sunlight by opening curtains during the day
Make sure your fireplace damper is closed when it’s not in use
Keep Your System Running Efficiently A well-maintained HVAC system is key to
reducing energy consumption:
Change or clean your furnace filters monthly
Schedule professional HVAC tune-ups
Check ductwork for leaks and fix any issues
Bleed radiators if you have a hot water heating system
Investing in Long-Term Efficiency While many of these steps are quick fixes, long-term investments in energy efficiency can further reduce heating costs and boost your property’s value. Consider:
Adding or upgrading insulation in walls and attics
Installing storm doors and windows
Upgrading to a smart thermostat
Replacing old appliances with Energy Star-certified models
Pro Tip: Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can reduce your heating bill by 1-3%. By combining multiple strategies, you can see significant savings throughout the winter season.
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