Did you know that the it is estimated that the average family spends HALF of their home energy bills on heating and cooling their home? I found this figure surprising and did some research on ways to lower this expense. If you heat with gas especially, it is estimated that the cost of energy will be on the rise again this winter. Now is the time to make sure that you do everything possible to lower your heating costs and heat your home safely.
- Windows and doors can make huge dents in your heating expense. Make sure that all gaps and cracks are sealed. Caulking and new weather stripping will most likely need to be replaced for the winter season. Remember that the more openings in these spaces, the larger your heating bill!
- Everyone knows to check their smoke alarms, but what about a carbon monoxide tester? If you heat with gas it is critical that you have a carbon monoxide tester that is working properly. If you don't already have a carbon monoxide tester - then get one! And if you do have one, replace the batteries and check it often.
- Disconnect your hose pipes and cover the fauet with an insulated cover. Bring the unused hose pipes indoors to store for the winter.
- Stop running those bathroom exhaust fans! Running the fan in a bathroom will actully pull warm air out of your home and cycle cool air back in. Only use these fans for a few minutes after getting out of the shower and then make sure to turn them off!
- Have your HVAC system cleaned and serviced. Many homeowners don't feel the need to call a HVAC company if their unit is working properly. This can be a big mistake. Not only will having your HVAC system cleaned and serviced alert you to possible problems, but it can save you up to 10% on your heating bills.
- If you have a fireplace, make sure the damper is CLOSED when not in use. Leaving this open is literally letting your heating dollars go up the chimney!
- Reverse your ceiling fans so that they blow up for the winter. Maximize your heating dollars by reversing the air flow up. Just make sure to reverse them down for spring.
- How old is your heating and cooling system? New units are much more energy efficient and can save up to 20% or more on your heating and cooling bills. If your old unit needs to be repaired, it may be more cost efficient to go with a completely new energy efficient unit for your home.
- Replace your air filters! I can't tell you how many times I show a home that is for sale and discover that the HVAC filter is dirty. Not only is this unattractive when the dirt become visible through the cover, but it is costing you money in your energy bills! Ask any HVAC expert and they will tell you that a dirty filter is one of the main reasons for system failure. Replace those filters and keep them clean!
- Lower your thermostat and save on heating costs! Make sure to set your thermostat on low when you are away at work. I was surprised to learn that for each degree that I lower my thermostat I can save an estimated one to three percent off my heating bill! Experts even say that sleeping at 60 degrees will make you awake feeling better, plus you'll save a ton on your heating bills! If you plan to be away for extended periods of time, setting the thermostat to 55 degrees is ideal.
- If you have fire extinguishers - which I hope you do - make sure they are less than 10 years old. Fire extinguishers should be replaced every ten years to make sure that they will be in operable condition if the emergency need arises.
- Buying a home is generally the largest investment that a family makes. The high cost of heating and cooling can certainly feel like the second largest investment we make when those high winter heating bills come in! Hopefully these tips will help lower your heating cost and keep your family safe and warm this winter!
If you have any questions about buying or selling a home, or investing in real estate in the Murfreesboro, TN or Middle TN area, please contact me at 615-566-3789.
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