Many homeowners in Mount Pleasant, SC, want high energy efficiency and lower utility bills. Although South Carolina doesn’t experience many extremely cold days, temperatures can feel chilly in the evenings and early mornings. There are several easy tips you can follow to reduce your energy bill during the heating season.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
The ideal temperature for your home is 68 degrees. But if the house is vacant, heating and maintaining this temperature is a waste of energy and money. One of the easiest ways to reduce your heating bill during the winter is to install a programmable thermostat. These units will work with your smartphone to let you lower the temperature while you’re away from home at work or on vacation.
Check the Vents Regularly
Each week when vacuuming or cleaning, check your vents and make sure they are open and clean. A closed vent makes your heating system work harder to keep the house at a consistent temperature. You should also make sure furniture or other items aren’t covering vents. The airflow in and around the area will help your HVAC unit work more efficiently. As a result, you’ll reduce the chance of receiving a high energy bill.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
You should call your HVAC service technician to check your heating system at least once a year. We can test for leaks or damaged parts and make sure your filters are clean and ready for winter. If your heating unit is more than 20 years old, it’s time to upgrade to a newer, more efficient system. These heating systems can save you 30-40 percent on your utility bills.
Use Ceiling Fans Correctly
If your home has ceiling fans in several rooms, remember to reverse the direction of the blades during the winter. Your fan should run in a clockwise direction when it’s colder outside. As a result, you’ll keep the heated air close to the floor. Circulating the air throughout your home will help your heating unit retain a constant temperature throughout the day.
If you’re ready to start saving money on your heating bills this winter, contact Carolina Custom Air. Our service technicians can check for leaks and give you suggestions for improving heating efficiency.
Image provided by Shutterstock