Your energy bills usually increase during the cooler winter months, but a few simple changes can keep you cozy in your New Orleans, Louisiana, home while lowering your energy use. Here are some tips that will help you boost your home’s efficiency this winter.
Check for Leaks and Drafts
You can save a lot of money by making sure you aren’t losing heat through cracks around your windows and doors. Weatherstripping and sealant can keep cold air out and warm air in so you’re not running the heating against a draft. Another area to check is the insulation in attics. Insufficient insulation will allow hot air to escape.
Have a Professional Inspect Your HVAC System
Having an experienced HVAC professional check your system will ensure that your heating unit and components are running at top efficiency. The technician can replace any old and worn parts and check the ductwork for leaks where you might be losing heat. A fully tuned-up system will put your mind at rest because you’ll know that you won’t have a heating breakdown during a cold snap.
Switch to LED Lightbulbs
The biggest energy use after heating is usually lighting, which can increase during dark winter days. Old fashioned incandescent bulbs actually waste a significant amount of energy as heat instead of light. Not only are LED bulbs much more efficient at converting electricity into light, but they also last significantly longer, quickly paying for the steeper price in energy savings and replacement costs.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are an excellent way of maintaining a comfortable home while saving energy. They let you program the temperature to be lower when everyone is away from home, so you’re not heating an empty house, then turn the heat up before you and your family get home.
If you’ve been thinking about ways to increase your home’s heating efficiency this winter then now’s a great time to discuss it with our team of qualified professionals at Bryans United Air Conditioning. Call us to schedule an appointment today.
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