As the weather gets colder, residential heating bills are on everyone’s minds. Naturally, the trick is to stay comfortably warm without having to pay a small fortune every month. To find that balance, it helps to know exactly what causes high heating bills. Here’s a closer look at the common culprits.

4 Reasons for High Residential Heating Bills 

1. Incorrect Meter Reading 

Before putting in the effort to check for other problems, see whether the cost of your residential heating bill could be the result of human error. Compare the meter reading indicated on your bill with the number displayed on your meter.

If it seems that your power company overcharged you, call them to get the issue resolved. If there was an error, you may be issued a new bill or a credit to your account.

2. Thermostat Set Too Low 

If you set your thermostat around 68°F, the temperature in your home should be ideal for keeping the occupants warm at a reasonable cost. Setting it lower at all times could be detrimental to your heating bill, but you should still keep it down when you’re asleep or away from home.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, keeping your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees below the norm for eight hours a day can save you 10% on your energy bills throughout the year. 

3. Lack of Insulation 

Proper insulation is indispensable to adequate residential heating. Cracks in the structure of the house can compromise this by letting cold air leak inside and warm air escape outside. As a result, your furnace has to work harder than it should to keep your home at the temperature you want.

Look for cracks in the roof and around windows, walls, or doors. Caulk whatever you can, and call a professional handyman for anything else. 

4. Faulty Furnace 

Furnaces need routine maintenance and TLC. Perhaps the filter’s clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, which may cause the system to struggle to keep up with your heating demands. The motor may need to be lubricated or fixed, or the coils might be past due for a cleaning.

Whatever your furnace requires, an HVAC contractor can help with it. From inspection and tuneup to replacement parts, fine-tuning will keep you cozy with some peace of mind.

For more advice or help keeping your residential heating bills low this winter, contact Arc Electric & Air Conditioning & Heating in Wilder, KY. Having been in business for more than 60 years, they’re highly experienced in a variety of HVAC issues and will treat your comfort with the same importance as their own, offering a one-year warranty to guarantee the quality of their work. Even if your furnace breaks down in the middle of the night, you can depend on their fully licensed technicians to be ready 24/7 to help. To find out more about their services, call them today at (859) 441-7161 or visit them online.