It’s winter in Iowa and the utility bills keep climbing. Here are some tips you can use to save energy in your home this winter:
1. Lower Your Thermostat
Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees can help you save as much as 10 percent a year on your heating bill. Similarly, you can program your thermostat You can always put on a sweater or use extra blankets while watching TV and sleeping!
2. Take Advantage of the Sun
Consider opening blinds and curtains on sunny days during the warmest part of the day. To maximize light, give your windows a quick scrub and focus on west and south-facing windows for the most warmth. Don’t forget to shut your blinds and curtains when the sun sets!
3. Check Your HVAC Filter
During the winter months, it is particularly important to check your HVAC filters monthly for debris build up and replace every 45-90 days. This not only affects the efficiency of your machine but could lead to damage if not addressed. When heating and cooling systems run with dirty filters, it can lead to higher energy bills because more electricity is required to operate the unit. If you are unsure about your filter, we’d be happy to help – feel free to call us!
4. Don’t Block Air Vents
Keep supply and return air vents clear of furniture, drapes, rugs, and decor. Your HVAC doesn’t know when air vents are blocked and will continue to pump the same amount of air throughout the system. Closing or blocking vents and registers could cause insufficient airflow and increased pressure. If you are dealing with uneven temperature, call us and we would be happy to look at it!
5. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
An HVAC tune-up with a Lenz Heating & Cooling service technician will review the performance and integrity of your system to make sure it is running efficiently. Regular tune-ups can help avoid interruptions and problems when you need your heat the most! Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.
