During winter, you don’t have to contend with higher-than-average heating costs to keep your home comfortably warm. Efficiency is the key to lowering energy bills while maintaining comfort during the coldest months, and with our tips, you’ll learn how to keep your home better insulated.
Regular HVAC Maintenance
Keeping your furnace or heat pump in top shape ensures it operates at peak efficiency year-round. Annual tune-ups before winter protect your unit by delaying the effects of wear and tear. During a service call, an HVAC technician can identify potential issues or recalibrate your thermostat.
Homeowners can also do their part by changing air filters every one to three months to improve indoor air quality. Make sure furnace vents and ducts are clear too — blocked airflow can overwork your system, leading to breakdowns or premature replacement.
Programmable or Smart Thermostats
Finding that perfect at-home temperature can be tricky, especially with multiple people coming and going.
Smart, programmable thermostats make it easier by letting you adjust the heat in rooms that are in use. You can set schedules based on your routine, keeping things warmer when you’re home and saving energy when you’re not.
Smart thermostats are a simple way to enjoy more comfort while cutting down on energy waste. You can even choose a smart thermostat that allows you to adjust home temperature from your smartphone, giving you control no matter where you are.
Seal & Insulate Your Home
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 30% of a home’s heat is lost through drafty windows.
The importance of proper insulation can’t be overstated. Before winter, check for cool drafts around doors, electrical outlets, or windows, and seal them using weatherstripping or caulk. For larger gaps or crevices, use foam sealant.
To retain even more heat, insulate your attic and walls. In the Bay Area, fiberglass batt and spray foam insulation are excellent options to keep heat from escaping.
Use Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains add an extra layer of insulation to windows and doors and are especially useful in older homes with draftier infrastructure. We recommend opening them during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home, then drawing them at night to trap the heat accumulated throughout the day.
Enhance Heat Distribution
Improving heat distribution helps warm your home more evenly. Here are a few simple ways to improve airflow to get your warm air moving freely:
- Use ceiling fans: Reversing the direction of your fan can circulate warm air down from the ceiling.
- Use strategic furniture placement: Make sure couches or large furniture items aren’t obstructing vents or radiators.
- Consider space heaters: Use space heaters to target specific rooms that need extra warmth.
Monitor Your Energy Usage
Keep an eye on your heating bills this winter. A straightforward way to track energy usage is through a utility provider’s app or website. These resources allow you to monitor your consumption, adjust your habits, and spot opportunities for savings through a comprehensive audit.
Energy-Efficient Heating Systems
Modern heating systems are designed for better efficiency and eco-friendly energy consumption.
If your gas furnace or heat pump is 12 years or older, it might be time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient unit with a higher ENERGY STAR® rating. High-efficiency furnaces are a great option, but a heat pump could be an even better choice depending on your household.
Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, making them perfect for Livermore’s coastal breezes and wet winters.
Choose AIS Heating & Air Conditioning
AIS Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help Livermore and Fremont homeowners save on heating costs this winter. As a family-owned, locally operated business, we proudly offer expert heating maintenance and installations across the Bay Area. Our certified technicians offer energy-efficient solutions with upfront pricing, so you’ll never face surprise fees.
Learn more about our energy-efficient options for heating replacements by speaking to an AIS team member today.