Winter can be a difficult time of year. On top of snowstorms, power outages, businesses being closed, snow days, and icy roads, it’s also just really, really cold! The cold weather can cause a large increase in your bills each month in the winter. If your previous heating bill was a bit of a shock to you and you’re looking to save some money while also staying warm this season, here are 7 tips we have that will help you out!
1. Hot water tank maintenance check
If you have a hot water tank, it is customary and very much advised to have it checked at least once a year. Upon inspection, routine maintenance can keep the water warmer longer and thus reducing your heating bill. You would be surprised at how much even just upgrading the hot water tank insulation blanket can save you every month it’s in use. At Greenwood Heating & Plumbing, we offer this service and will gladly schedule an appointment with you.
2. Replace old heating systems
If you’re experiencing issues with an old water heater or boiler, it may be time to replace them with a new one. Boilers should be replaced every 15 years. Water heaters should be replaced every 10 years. If it’s time for your water heater or furnace to be replaced, reach out to us ASAP. We can set up an appointment and inspect your water heater or boiler and replace it for you if necessary.
3. Clear the way for the heater
Really take a look at the furniture in each of your rooms. Is your couch right in front of the radiator? Is it wedged in a corner with a table or bookshelf right next to it? Is there a window curtain right on top of the vent? If you said yes to any of these questions, your radiator is generating heat that’s being blocked, keeping you in the cold and your heating bill on the rise.
4. Set your timer
A lot of central heating systems have a timer feature, some that you can even set right from your phone. Welcome to the 21st century! According to the Center for Sustainable Energy, programming your heater to come on 30 minutes before your alarm clock each morning but at a lower temperature than usual is cheaper than turning it on right when you need it at a higher temperature. Boilers, in particular, heat up at a constant speed. NOTICE: Do not keep your heat on all day! Especially when you leave the house.
5. Turn it down a notch
The World Health Organization had once recommended keeping your living room at a warm 69 degrees, but other public health organizations have since recommended a cooler 64. It may not seem like much, but it also won’t feel like much of a difference either, yet even just the slightest decrease in temperature on your heater can save you a staggering amount on your heating costs.
6. Install thicker insulation
This isn’t exactly the cheapest option on the list but can definitely save you money in the long term. A lot of people don’t realize it, but heat can escape through walls, not just windows. Since heat rises, it can also escape through the roof. Perhaps setting up an appointment with an energy supplier to get more information on your home would be worthwhile to save you in the long term.
7. Keep the cold out
Even if you don’t want to spend a little extra on thicker insulation, there are cheaper alternatives to stay warm. Purchase a couple of cheap rubber adhesives and install them on all of your doors, windows, and any cracks in your home.
For all of your heating needs this winter, be sure to reach out to the local small business that is a part of your community and is always there and eager to help you! Check out our website to learn more about all the heating and plumbing repairs, installation, and maintenance services that we provide, and give us a call at 401-738-9245.