

You and your family can stay nice and cozy warm throughout the winter months without going bankrupt paying high energy costs. Did you know that there are three specific steps you can take to use less energy to heat your home, all while remaining warm and comfortable? Take a look at these three suggestions that you or your HVAC contractor can implement in order to save on energy costs this winter without feeling uncomfortable.
Lower the Thermostat
Recognize that pushing the thermostat up 10 degrees suddenly will greatly increase energy costs and waste energy. The system will work too hard and end up making your home hotter than asked. Experiment by setting the thermostat to the lowest temperature at which everyone in the house still enjoys a comfort level, then keep the thermostat at that setpoint. For every degree that you lower the thermostat, you can realize energy savings as much as 4%.
Every night before retiring to bed, crank the thermostat down a few more degrees. Under the covers, you won’t even notice the difference. Then, first thing in the morning, return it to the regular setpoint you discovered earlier. If everyone is out of the house until the end of the day, don’t push up the thermostat until the evening hours.
To learn more, call: (800) 644-6400
Maintain A Clean Filter
There is a direct correlation to the amount of dirt on your heating system’s air filter and the amount of energy the system has to use in order to maintain the proper amount of airflow. A dirty air filter is very economical to replace, but left in place, will waste money through higher energy costs. It’s a good idea to mark a date on your calendar every month as a reminder to replace old filters.
Other smart maintenance chores that result in lower energy costs during winter include cleaning the outside condensing coil of your heat pump. Any debris that obstruct the pump’s normal airflow, including grass and leaves, will cause energy waste. And if your heating system burns fossil fuels, consider installing a carbon monoxide monitor as a safety measure to prevent accidental poisoning.
Invest in New Technology When Appropriate

If your current heating system is 10 to 15 years old, now is the time to consider upgrading to a more energy efficient unit. You can spend money continuing to repair an outdated heating system, or ask your HVAC contractor for suggestions on what type of new heating system will save your household money in the long run by requiring lower energy usage. Don’t scrimp on pennies by pushing off installing a new heating system until next year, because not only will you waste energy and money, you may find yourself with a malfunctioning unit on the coldest night of the year, which is certainly no fun!
Rely on Professional Preventative Maintenance
It’s a good idea to have an HVAC contractor you trust to inspect your heating system at least once a year so that little problems or issues don’t turn into large and expensive ones. Many contractors can offer you a preventative maintenance contract in which they automatically visit at least once annually to inspect and clean your heating system.
Some of the things they can check on during an annual inspection include:
- Checking that air ducts are properly connected, sealed and insulated to prevent heat loss.
- Servicing humidifiers for optimal functioning.
- Checking heat exchangers for any cracks.
- Checking that all operating controls and safety features are functioning properly.
- Ensuring that all chimney and vent exhausts are moving to the outside rather than circulating inside the house.
- Measuring the amount of combustion air flowing into boilers and furnaces.
Purchasing a preventative maintenance agreement not only takes the work and worry off of your shoulders, but often includes such benefits as discounts on any repairs and parts needed if system defects are discovered. A combined effort on your part, along with your HVAC contractor, can ensure you stay warm and comfortable all winter long, with the added bonus of lower energy costs.
Related blogs
View All blogs
August 13, 2024

What Should I Do if My Heating System Stops Working?
Nobody likes to think about their heating system breaking down during chilly weather, but if it happens to you, Trademasters can help. In this article, we’re sharing some practical tips on how to recognize signs that your heating system may be in distress, how to stay warm while waiting for help, and how Trademasters provides you with the emergency repairs you need. Keep reading to learn more!
July 10, 2024

Plumbing Red Flags: When to Call in an Emergency Plumber
When it comes to plumbing issues, timing is everything. A minor leak can quickly turn into a disastrous flood, and a clogged drain can lead to a sewage backup if left unattended. That's why it's essential to recognize different red flags with your plumbing systems and know when to call an emergency plumber. In this blog, we'll discuss the key signs that indicate you need immediate plumbing assistance.
October 10, 2024

Is Your Home Ready for Fall? Here are Five Tips that Can Help.
Summer is almost over, and it’s time to get your home ready for the cooler weather ahead. The early fall is a great time of year to take care of both indoor and outdoor tasks, as temperatures are generally mild and there are still plenty of daylight hours. While it may seem like extra work, taking care of some simple household tasks can make for a much smoother transition between the seasons.
View All blogs
Open Your Door
to Excellence

Experience security and confidence like never before in your home services journey. Our groundbreaking approach allows homeowners to proactively plan, shop, and browse for the convenience of their laptop or phone. Gone are the days of unreliable contractors and shoddy workmanship. Enjoy peace of mind with a Trademasters’ membership. Open your door to collaboration, transparency, and professionalism. Open your door to a Trademasters membership.
Join now
The Trademasters Opportunity
