Winter weather brings a drop in temperature and the need to run heat more consistently to keep your home warm and comfortable. An energy-efficient home can make a significant difference in regulating your utility bills. Below are a few expert tips from HVAC contractors on how to lower your heating costs this season.

How to Lower Utility Bills This Winter

1. Use the Sun

The heat from the sun is an easy and free way to heat your living space. During the day, open the curtains on south-facing windows to let sunlight in to warm the room. This also provides natural light and prevents the need to use overhead lighting continually.

2. Upgrade Your Thermostat

Programmable digital thermostats allow you to schedule when your heating unit will operate. Set your heat only to run when you are at home and to turn down or off when no one is home. This reduces wear and tear on your equipment since the system will not be running continuously and provides a consistent, comfortable temperature.

3. Reduce Drafts

If windows are inefficient or old, the cold air can creep inside and force your furnace to work harder to keep the room warm. However, if there are issues with insulation, most of that heat filters outside instead of staying in where you need it. If replacing old windows is not an option, cover drafts with heavy-duty plastic sheets. Curtains and shades are also helpful in preventing energy loss.

4. Fix Seals

Any gaps in walls or the foundation will allow heat to exit your home. Check seals around windows, doors, chimneys, light fixtures, and holes around pipes. If you notice cracks or gaps, caulk or add weatherstripping to create a barrier.

5. Call for Maintenance

An annual visit from your HVAC contractor can ensure that your system is working optimally year-round. Experts will clean and inspect each component, and they can repair or replace problematic parts. They can also advise you on how to run your system more efficiently and will make recommendations to avoid significant issues, like a component failure, down the line.

For an HVAC contractor in Fort Dodge, IA, trust Riley-Armstrong Plumbing & Heating. Their team brings 30 years of experience to every HVAC repair or plumbing project for both residential and commercial customers. Their expertise can also help you make your home more efficient, as they can perform preventive maintenance on your equipment to keep it in top shape. For an appointment, call (515) 955-2232 today, and visit them online for a look at their past projects.