How to Save Money on Your Heating Bills To Ensure Furnace Energy Efficiency

According to the US Department of Energy, HVAC energy consumption can make up 35 to 50 percent of your total energy bill. Heating your home can be one of the largest expenses in your monthly budget, especially during the colder months.

However, there are ways to improve the efficiency of your furnace and keep your heating bills as low as possible. Use these simple steps to make your furnace more energy-efficient and help you save money.

Change your furnace filter regularly

We can’t stress this enough. Clogged filters can cause your furnace to work harder to heat your home. And if the equipment is working optimally, that leads to higher energy bills. Manufacturers recommend changing your furnace filter minimally once a season, and as much as monthly in a business household.

Adjust your thermostat

How often do you adjust your thermostat each day? Setting your thermostat to a lower temperature when you’re not home or sleeping can help you save money. A programmable thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away or asleep. A smart thermostat can give you control from anywhere with internet access, and provide smart learning features to make your home even more efficient. 

Insulate your home

Insulating your home can help keep the heat your furnace produces where it belongs. Check for air leaks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets, and use weather stripping or caulk to seal them. You can also add insulation to various rooms, including your attic, walls, and floors. This helps improve your home’s energy efficiency. It will also further protect ductwork, which is often located in the attic. 

Upgrade your furnace

If your furnace is 15 years or older, replace it with a newer, more energy-efficient model. More recent furnaces use less energy and are designed to be more efficient than their older counterparts. Consider purchasing an ENERGY STAR-certified furnace for maximum energy savings.

Schedule regular maintenance

To keep a furnace working well, it’s important to schedule regular maintenance. It allows a technician to catch minor issues before they escalate into full-blown problems. Maintenance includes:

• Cleaning the furnace.
• Checking for leaks or cracks.
• Ensuring that all components are in good working condition.

Use a space heater

With more people working from home, you may spend much of your day in one room. Consider using a space heater instead of heating the entire house. This allows you to keep the house at a lower temperature while most of your time is spent in your home office. 

Want to increase efficiency and save money on your utility bills? Just a few tweaks to your living arrangements can save you money. If you’re ready for additional tips, consider hiring a professional to assess your home and make recommendations.

How can we help you create a warmer home?