The cold season brings tons of exciting activities and events, but it can also impact your pocketbook. From holiday lights to keeping your home cozy throughout harsh weather, many Phoenix families are left with high energy expenses. Luckily, there are steps you can take to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our experts at Integrity AC & Heating LLC in Phoenix created a list of ways you can save. Try them out and see lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Change your thermostat to lower heating output during hours 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 decrease 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 do full loads. This will save you money on water heating, water usage and on heat required for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than was really necessary, right? And, don’t forget: cleaning 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 determine the areas where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use extra energy. The assessment can show you ways 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 cover windows with plastic, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks coming through doors and windows. Contact Integrity AC & Heating LLC to find out more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One easy way to receive lower utility bills is to switch out your older holiday lights for LED lights. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these energy efficient lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last nearly 40 holiday seasons in Phoenix.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need a new furnace, consider an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save up to $800 every year on annual heating bills compared to older furnaces. Or, if you’ve made a replacement recently, remember to schedule a service visit for your current equipment. An easy tune-up can help you achieve lower utility bills by making it easier for the system to do its job.
For more information on how you can achieve lower utility bills this winter, give Integrity AC & Heating LLC in Phoenix a call at 602-971-0567.