The winter season brings a bunch of fun activities and events, but it can also do a number on your wallet. From holiday lights to maintaining a warm home throughout harsh weather, many Naples families are left with high energy expenses. Luckily, there are steps you can take to cut back your expenses and achieve lower utility bills.
Our professionals at CNR Air Conditioning Inc in Naples created a list of ways you can save. Try them out and experience lower utility bills this winter season.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Program your thermostat to lower heating output when you’re asleep or not home. Three to five percent more energy is consumed when your furnace is set above 68 degrees, so try keeping your home at 68 degrees when you’re at home and awake, and reduce the temperature 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 you save on water heating, water usage and on heat used for the dryer. You don’t want to do more laundry than was really necessary, 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 determine the places where your home is losing energy through leaks, drafts, or products and appliances that use excess energy. The assessment can show you ways to save the most, including long- and short-term energy-saving options.
4. Properly seal your leaks.
From your HVAC ducts to attics, walls and windows, there are many areas in your home that may be letting in unwanted cold air. Simply tape heavy plastic over the windows, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal leaks around doors and windows. Contact CNR Air Conditioning Inc to hear more about sealing your air ducts.
5. Use LED holiday lights.
One easy way to get lower utility bills is to switch out your older, less efficient 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 up to 40 holiday seasons in Naples.
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 a year on annual heating bills versus older furnaces. Or, if you’re not quite ready for a replacement, remember to schedule a service visit for your current equipment. A quick 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 CNR Air Conditioning Inc in Naples a call at 239-241-5318.