How To Save Money While Staying Warm
Energy Saving Tips and Advice for Winter
As you know, your heating system represents a big chunk of the average home’s energy consumption. That’s why it’s so important to maintain this equipment properly—and invest in a replacement system when your heating unit has reached the end of its life span. But it also makes sense to look beyond your heating system and find other ways to conserve energy.
In fact, with a little planning and some simple changes around the house, you can lower your energy output and expenses. Here are three cost-effective ways to help you save energy.
1. Use a Smart Programmable Thermostat
Investing in a smart programmable thermostat is a wise move. When used correctly, it will pay for itself in just a short time. If you choose a Wi-Fi thermostat, you can control your home’s temperature from your smartphone.
In the winter, the U.S. Energy Department recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F when you’re at home. Dial it down toward the 60°F range when you’re asleep or out of the house. The temperatures you ultimately choose will depend on factors like the outdoor temperature and your family’s comfort preferences. Remember, these are just guidelines.
2. Weatherize and Insulate
Before winter sets in, it’s a good time to caulk any air leaks around exterior doors and windows that might have widened over the past few years. While you’re at it, try replacing door weatherstripping that might have worn away.
In terms of insulation, most homes are under-insulated. Adding enough to meet recommended R-values is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s overall efficiency and comfort. Read the Energy Department’s Guide to Home Insulation.
3. Use the Sun’s Free Heat in the Winter
During the cold months, keep curtains and shades open in sun-exposed rooms to absorb all that free heat and energy during the day, then close them at night to keep it in at night. Do the reverse in the summer by closing curtains and shades during the day to block solar heat. Smart window treatments can help manage solar energy throughout the year.
To learn about how you can positively impact your home’s energy efficiency through upgrades to boilers or furnaces, please visit our website.
FSi Oil and Propane has been a family-owned company serving western Massachusetts since 1989. Quality is our top priority. Our employees are all highly trained, certified technicians. We value our reputation, and we protect it with honest workmanship, fair pricing, and superior products. When you contact FSi Oil and Propane to maintain, repair or install your boiler or furnace, you can rest assured that the very best people are on the job.
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