3 Steps To Improving Home Energy Efficiency
Are you looking ahead to fall and winter with just a bit of apprehension? Sure, the holidays are fun, but those heating bills aren’t. Fortunately, you can lower them by taking three steps to improve your home energy efficiency. These steps aren’t difficult, and you’ll be rewarded when you open your cold-weather energy bills.
No. 1: Seal air leaks
The little air leaks in your home might seem insignificant, but added up, they can significantly raise your heating bills. Heat can escape and cold air can enter via spots such as window and door frames and places where utility lines enter your home. Cold air can even seep through electrical outlets. Put a stop to this energy waste by locating these air leaks and sealing them. Using caulk and weatherstripping, you can easily do this job yourself in a weekend.
No. 2: Upgrade your home’s insulation
Insulation acts as a barrier between the outside and the inside of your home. If your insulation is inadequate, you’re inviting cold air to seep into your home and forcing your furnace to work overtime. Upgrading your insulation is one very simple solution. Of primary importance is the attic. Again, you can insulate the attic yourself, using foam batts or loose fill. If any ductwork is running through uninsulated spaces, such as your attic or a crawl space, make sure it’s insulated, too. If you don’t feel comfortable doing these jobs yourself, call in your heating and cooling contractor.
No. 3: Maintain your HVAC system
An HVAC system that’s maintained conserves energy and experiences fewer problems than a system that’s neglected. Check your furnace filter regularly during the heating season, and change it as soon as it looks dirty. Make sure you have your furnace tuned up at the beginning of each season. If you don’t already have a maintenance plan, now’s a good time to look into one. A maintenance plan is an affordable way to ensure that your system stays in top-top shape.
For expert advice on ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, contact Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We’re happy to answer any questions you have. We proudly serve homeowners in greater Cincinnati.