If you’re tired of winter heating costs taking a serious chunk out of your monthly budget, don’t resign yourself to another season of soaring utility bills. There are many ways to reduce winter energy costs without compromising home comfort, especially if you work with your local heating service. Use these tips to get started.

5 Excellent Ways To Lower Heating Costs This Winter

1. Schedule Heating Services Before The First Big Chill

Schedule heating services with your local HVAC contractor at the end of fall to ensure efficient system function. Annual maintenance checks identify heating system issues before they become big, costly problems that could leave you without heat for several days. Depending on your system’s age, your contractor may recommend upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, or boiler.

2. Seal Air Leaks

Use caulk and weatherstripping materials to seal all of the air leaks in your home. Drafty doors and windows lose heat at an alarming rate, which make your heating system work much harder. Sealants eliminate costly air leaks that overtax your furnace or other heat source that contribute to premature wear and tear.  

3. Purchase A Programmable Thermostat

Invest in a programmable thermostat so you never waste heat. Programmable thermostats make it easy to lower heat output when you’re asleep or away from your house with pre-set schedules. Program yours at 60 degrees before bedtime for better sleep, and to 55 degrees whenever you go away for the weekend or longer to keep energy use efficient.

4. Insulate Your Attic

Add insulation to your attic or update what’s there to avoid further heat loss. Heat naturally rises and escapes uninsulated attics, which can melt any snow on your roof. This snow refreezes along the edge of the roof to form heavy, dangerous ice dams.

5. Reduce Your Hot Water Heater Temperature

Lower your hot water heater to 125 or 120 degrees Fahrenheit to save 4 to 22% in annual energy costs. Insulate your hot water heater with an insulation blanket or wrap for additional savings.

Prepare for winter by scheduling heating services with Hufford Heating & Air Conditioning now. Their family-owned HVAC company has kept homes throughout the eastern Cincinnati, OH area comfortable since 1947, and continues to provide unparalleled customer service through their talented, experienced contractors using the latest and most innovative equipment. Call (513) 683-2040 to request a quote today or learn about heating services online.