The winter months bring lots of enjoyable activities and events, but it can also take a toll on your pocketbook. From holiday lights to staying warm in the middle of harsh weather, many Lake Worth families experience high energy expenses. Luckily, there are steps you can take to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our experts at Smyth Air Conditioning Inc in Lake Worth came up with a list of ways you can save. Try them out and see lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Set your thermostat to lower heating output at times when you’re asleep or not home. Three to five percent more energy is consumed when your furnace is set above 68 degrees, so try keeping your home at 68 degrees when you’re at home and awake, and lower to 55-65 degrees at times when you’re away at work, out of town or sleeping to achieve lower utility bills.
2. Make sure you only wash when you have full loads.
Put off doing laundry until you can run full loads. This will help save money on water heating, water usage and on heat required for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than actually needed, right? And, don’t forget: clearing out the lint trap after every load can save you up to $34 a year, according to PG&E.
3. Conduct a home energy audit.
A home energy audit can help you see the places where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use extra energy. The assessment can explain how to save on energy expenses, including long- and short-term energy-saving possibilities.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your HVAC ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are many areas in your home that may be allowing cold air in. Simply tape heavy plastic over the windows, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks on doors and windows. Contact Smyth Air Conditioning Inc to find out more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One of the easiest ways to get lower utility bills is to switch out your older, less efficient holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LEDs use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 40 holiday seasons in Lake Worth.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need to replace your furnace, consider an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save up to $800 a year on annual heating bills over older furnaces. Or, if it’s not quite time for a replacement, remember to schedule a service visit for your current furnace. A quick tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to operate.
For more information on how you can lower your utility bills this winter, give Smyth Air Conditioning Inc in Lake Worth a call at 561-533-6066 .