6 Ways to Keep Your Heating Bills Down This Winter

According to the Winter Fuels Outlook 2021 report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, almost half of U.S. households who utilize natural gas to heat their homes are going to experience a 30% increase in their heating bill compared to the year prior.

Not everybody can afford to have such a steep hike in heating prices, which is why we have created this list of tips to help you fight back against rising costs.

Upgrades to Help You Save

Improve Insulation

The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association estimates that around 90% of single-family homes in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation. If you find that your heating bill has been uncharacteristically high lately, insulation may be the answer. By increasing the insulation in your home’s attic and walls, you can reduce the amount of heat lost through these surfaces -- thus saving you in heating costs.

Geothermal Heat Services

Installing a geothermal heat pump is not only great for the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run. These HVAC systems are designed to pull heat from the ground into the building or pull the hot air out of the home and send it down into the earth. Due to the fact this system doesn’t utilize fuel to warm your home, the installation of a geothermal heat pump can save you 30 to 60 percent on your heating compared to conventional systems.

Smart Thermostat

Smart technology is taking over, and there is a good reason why. By replacing your traditional thermostat with a smart thermostat, you can save a nice chunk of change every year on both your heating and cooling bills. A Nest thermostat, for example, will learn your schedule and raise or drop the temperature of your home at night and when you go to work to increase energy efficiency and help you save on your energy bill.

Tips to Help You Save

Routine maintenance

You don’t have to upgrade all your heating systems in order to see savings! Over the years, your system’s performance and efficiency will continuously drop if you don’t have maintenance performed regularly. Having a trained professional (like the ones at B & J Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.) maintain your system will ensure your system requires less power to heat your home, which can cut as much as 25% off of your energy bill. Regular upkeep is also a great way to prevent any unexpected and costly breakdowns.

Drop the Temperature When You Sleep

Did you know that you can save money by keeping your thermostat at one specific temperature during the day and dropping it at night? It’s true! According to the Department of Energy, if you keep your home at 68 degrees Fahrenheit (during the winter) and drop the temperature by 10-12 degrees Fahrenheit at night or when you’re away, you will maintain your comfort while saving as much as 10% a year on your heating bill.

Open Your Windows on a Sunny Day

By utilizing the greatest source of heat in the universe (the sun), you can assist in heating your home while saving money on your energy bill. While it may seem counterintuitive to do, opening your curtains on sunny days allows the sun to assist your heating systems in warming your home. The sun rays ease the burden on your furnace and other heating appliances, effectively cutting your bill since they require less energy to reach a comfortable temperature. You can also close your curtains at night to trap in the heat your home absorbs during the day.

At B & J Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. our team of expert HVAC technicians can assist you with all your heating installations and needs! Contact us at (252) 512-5651, to ensure you start the new year as comfortable as possible.