7 Tips to Lower your Heating Bill this Winter | Furnace

Summer is nearly over. School is starting, fall is on the way, and winter just around the corner. And with winter often comes higher energy bills. From stopping air leaks to getting regular maintenance on your furnace in San Jose, CA, here are a few simple things you can do to lower heating costs this winter:  

1. Stop Cold Air Leaks

Look around your home. Do you have windows or doors that do not seal? These fenestrations are a common source of heat loss. One way to test for air leaks is to close all the doors and windows and turn on your exhaust fans. Light an incense stick and run it around the windows and doors. If the smoke pulls towards you, you have an air leak. Try sealing off the leak with weather stripping and caulking. If the gap is too wide you may have to replace your windows and doors.  

2. Turn the Heat Down at Night

Most people tend to sleep better in a room that is cool. So instead of keeping the temperature up, lower it by a few degrees so you can sleep more comfortably. You might even consider investing in flannel sheets and down comforters so you can lower the temperature even further and stay comfortable in your bed.   

3. Lower the Thermostat When you areAway 

Another thing you should do is lower the temperature when you are away from home. There is no need to heat a space that isn’t occupied. But don’t go as far as turning off the entire system. This isn’t good for your comfort or your furnace. Instead, just lower it a few degrees to improve efficiency and reduce heating costs.   

4. Invest in a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Remembering to raise and lower the thermostat every time you leave, come home, and go to bed can feel like a full-time job. That is where a programmable or smart thermostat really proves useful. With a programmable thermostat, you can set a schedule for your temperature changes based on your pattern of living. Or, taking it one step further, a smart thermostat learns your patterns and adjust the temperature accordingly. You can also adjust temperatures from your smartphone if you happen to leave on vacation and forgot to adjust them when you left.   

5. Stock Up on Blankets, Socks, and Sweaters

Instead of always adjusting the thermostat up and down, try dawning a sweater or thick pair of socks. Bundling up a little inside can save you a lot of money in the winter.   

6. Capitalize on Natural Sunlight

Natural light does more than just brighten your space. It can also fill your home with radiant heat. So on sunny winter days, throw open the blinds and curtains to warm your home for free.   

7. Replace Air Filters

Don’t forget about your furnace filters. During peak usage you want to check your filters monthly and replace them as needed.   

8. 8.Get Routine Furnace Maintenance 

Many homeowners neglect their furnace until something goes wrong. But like your car, your furnace needs routine checks and repairs to keep running in top shape and avoid more expensive problems down the road.   

Need repairs or maintenance on your furnace in San Jose, CA before winter? Call the experts at Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning. We have been serving the bay area since 2002 and are conveniently located at 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112. Our technicians provide the highest quality service. To set up your next appointment you can call (408) 978-7060.