Before the 2016-17 winter started, energy experts predicted that homeowners across the United States would pay more on their winter heating bills in comparison to 2015-16 because of higher natural gas prices and a colder forecast. As with most of the country, though, residents in Gurnee, Illinois, have enjoyed another warmer than usual winter.
Don’t start jumping for joy just yet; there are still a couple of months left for Mother Nature to unleash her frigid and frosty fury. If you have received a high heating bill to start the new year, here some other possible reasons for it.
You Don’t Adjust the Thermostat at Night
When you leave your home for more than a few hours or go to sleep, you should turn down the thermostat to save energy and money. If you’re too busy to remember and you still own a manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat, which can perform this action for you. Just set it, and forget it.
You Don’t Utilize the Ceiling Fans
Why own a ceiling fan if you don’t use it properly? Contrary to the summer, when the ceiling fan should rotate in a counterclockwise direction to direct cooler airflow, it should rotate in a clockwise direction during the winter to redistribute the warm air that naturally rises to the ceiling.
You Haven’t Changed Your Filter
A clogged filter not only impacts your HVAC system’s efficiency but also negatively affects indoor air quality. Even during a mild winter, when your system doesn’t have to work as hard, you should change your filter monthly.
You Haven’t Filled Leaks, Covered Holes or Replaced Seals
Whether it’s a leaky window, an uncovered hole in an exterior wall or a worn-out door seal, there are plenty of ways your home can lose valuable heat and cost you. Prior to each winter, you should conduct a complete inspection of your home to seal all air leaks, cover all holes and replace any worn seals.
You Aren’t Making Smart Lighting Choices
Lighting choices matter, especially during the darker winters. Here are three energy-saving lighting tips to keep in mind:
- Compact fluorescent light bulbs are better choices in areas where you leave the light on for a long time.
- Light-emitting diodes are better choices in areas where you turn the lights on and off frequently.
- Dimming incandescent bulbs use less energy and last longer.
For more information about how to curb your heating costs in Gurnee, Illinois, even in an unseasonably warm winter, read about how to prepare for the heating season or contact Herchenbach Mechanical Inc. at (847) 260-9335. Please remember that we do offer 24-Hour emergency HVAC services, including all heater repairs.
