The cold season brings tons of fun activities and events, but it can also impact your pocketbook. From holiday lights to maintaining a warm home during harsh weather, many Tucson families experience high energy expenses. Luckily, you can take some easy steps to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our professionals at A&M Heating & Cooling LLC in Tucson came up with a list of ways you can save. Try them out and enjoy lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Set your thermostat to lower heating output at times when you’re asleep or not home. Three to five percent more energy is used 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.
Don’t do laundry until you can do full loads. This will help save money on water heating, water usage and on heat needed for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than actually needed, right? And, keep in mind: cleaning out 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 find the spots where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use more energy. The assessment can show you how to save on energy expenses, including long- and short-term energy-saving possibilities.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your heating and cooling ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are a number of areas in your home that may be letting cold air seep through. Simply tape heavy plastic over the windows, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks coming through doors and windows. Contact A&M Heating & Cooling LLC to hear 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 Tucson.
6. Install a high-efficiency furnace.
If you need a new furnace, look into an energy efficient furnace. Some systems can save up to $800 yearly on annual heating bills compared to older furnaces. Or, if you’re not quite ready for a replacement, remember to schedule a routine maintenance 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 A&M Heating & Cooling LLC in Tucson a call at 520-200-1048.