The winter season brings tons of fun activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your budget. From holiday lights to keeping your home cozy in the middle of harsh weather, many West Valley City families are left with high energy expenses. Luckily, there are steps you can take to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our experts at Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning in West Valley City created a list of ways you can save. Try them out and see lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Program your thermostat to lower heating output during hours 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 reduce the temperature 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 help save money on water heating, water usage and on heat required for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than was really necessary, right? And, keep in mind: cleaning out 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 determine the spots where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use more energy. The assessment can show you ways to save on energy expenses, including long- and short-term energy-saving possibilities.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your HVAC ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are a number of areas in your home that may be allowing cold air in. Simply cover drafty windows with a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks around doors and windows. Contact Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning 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, LEDs use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can work for nearly 40 holiday seasons in West Valley City.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need to replace your furnace, look into an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save hundreds of dollars every year on annual heating bills over older furnaces. Or, if you’re not quite ready for a replacement, remember to schedule a service visit for your current equipment. An easy tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to work.
For more information on how you can lower your utility bills this winter, give Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning in West Valley City a call at 801-305-4777.