Heating Expenses Got You Down? 5 Ways to Save Throughout the Winter

During the winter, the cost of heating your home to a comfortable temperature can skyrocket, especially during a particularly cold weather pattern. Fortunately, a few improvements around your home can boost your home’s energy efficiency, potentially lowering your heating costs. These improvements include, but are not limited to, adding new window coverings and sealing gaps around your windows and doors.

Use Your Thermostat Wisely

Insulation

If your heating system uses a thermostat for control, programming it can make a big difference in how much you’ll pay for heating. When you’re at work and your children are at school, you don’t need to endlessly heat your home. Instead, set the thermostat to heat up your home just before you’ll arrive home.

Improve Attic Insulation

If your home’s attic doesn’t have sufficient insulation, the heat inside your home will escape through the ceiling, leaving your home at the mercy of chilly weather. Installing insulation can alleviate this problem and give your heating system less work to do to keep your home at a cozy temperature. Although you can add new insulation to your attic on your own, this job can be tricky and may be better left to a professional company.

Seal Leaks

Leaks in the seals around your windows and doors draw warm air out of your home, forcing your heating system to work harder. Before winter arrives, check each window and door in your home for any cracks or holes. You can use a few different techniques to check for leaks, such as shining a flashlight from outside around a window to see if someone inside can see the light peeking through. You can use weather stripping or caulk to shore up the seals.

Use the Sun to Your Advantage

On a bright sunny day, open up your blinds and drapes to invite the warmth of the sun into your home. With the sun’s heat blazing inside, you won’t need to run your furnace as much. When the sun goes down, close up your window coverings to keep the warmth inside.

Check Your Heating System

Regular maintenance for your heating system is essential to keep it running efficiently. Depending on your heating system, you may be able to do some tasks on your own, such as replacing the furnace’s filter. Other tasks may require assistance from a heating expert, especially if something is wrong with your system.

If a large portion of your paycheck is going to your monthly heating costs, it’s time to improve your home’s efficiency. Jersey Shore Crawlspace Enhancement offers a range of services for your home, including attic insulation. Contact us today to learn how we can help you save money on your heating costs.