Wisconsinites may still be experiencing mild weather, but as we all know, winter is just around the corner – and with it a drop in temperatures, snow, and of course, heating bills. In fact, you may have seen some of the recent headlines predicting high heating costs as a result of high natural gas prices. While Focus on Energy recommends using energy efficient heating equipment as a means of controlling energy costs, there are steps Wisconsin residents and businesses can take to make sure all heating equipment works as efficiently as possible - saving you money.
Focus on Energy recommends the following for maintaining a comfortable living/working environment without breaking the bank on energy bills this winter:
- Switch your furnace fan to "auto." Depending on the type of furnace you have, you could save $50 to $350 in furnace energy costs by running your fan on "auto" during the winter as opposed to "on/continuous."
- Check your thermostat. Make sure the temperature settings are correct for you, and if a programmable thermostat is used, make sure the time of day is set properly and the events match your schedule. Turning down the thermostat when you are away or sleeping by 5 degrees for eight hours every day will save about 5 percent on your heating bill.
- Make sure supply and return registers in occupied rooms aren't blocked by furniture or draperies.
- Replace your furnace filter. Dirty filters can reduce energy efficiency by 10 percent or more. Fiberglass filters should be changed every 30 days, media filters twice a year. If filters are extremely dirty, you should change them more often to ensure proper airflow. Ask your contractor what is best for your system.
- Check your heating equipment. Make sure that items are not stored by or on the equipment.
- Call your contractor. Preventive maintenance is important to ensure the energy efficiency and performance of your heating system. Equipment that hasn't been properly serviced tends to be less efficient and work significantly harder. The small price of maintaining your equipment is easily offset by the savings you will see in your utility bills and replacement costs.
- Insulate and air seal. Sealing leaks and correcting poor insulation will dramatically
lower your energy bills and increase comfort. Insulation can pay for itself in as little as two years.
Want more tips for increasing the efficiency of your home or business? Visit
focusonenergy.com.
