10 Ways to Shrink Your Energy Bills This Winter

Tired of seeing your energy bills skyrocket during the winter? There are plenty of things you can do around your house that require very little or no money out of your pocket that can save you a fortune. Here are 10 Ways To Shrink Your Energy Bills This Winter:

1. Close the damper in your fireplace when it is not in use. A tightly closed damper will prevent warm air from escaping up through the chimney.

2. Seal all cracks and air leaks in your windows, doors and plumbing. This process will cost you about $50 in materials, but the savings will outweigh the cost. All you need is caulk, insulation pads and weatherstripping.

3. Your furnace needs a tune-up, stop putting it off. A heating system tune-up from the experts at Uptown will save you 10% or more on your heating bills. Sealing the ductwork reduces air leakage by 15% and heating bills from 3% to 10%..

4. It may be time for appliance upgrades. Look for the ENERGY STAR, it will save you bundles of money. In fact, an energy efficient fridge can save you $80 per year while an upgraded clothes washer can saved you up to $110.

5. Have an attic in your home? Chances are warm air is escaping up there. Increase the amount of insulation in your attic can save you up to 30% on your energy bills.

6. The cost of heating your home is not getting any cheaper. However, pellet stoves can help. A new stove costs around $2,000 and it’s about $6 for a 40-pound bag of pellets. The benefit? 50% or more off your heating bills.

7. The next time you’re craving a long, steamy shower remember this: heating water accounts for up to 11% of your utility bills. Take quick, cooler showers and consider purchasing an energy-efficient electric water heater to save up to 20% on your water heating bills.

8. Not ready to spend a fortune on new window units? Installing storm windows will reduce heat loss by 25% or more. They are easy to install and are much cheaper than completely replacing your windows.

9. If your gas or oil-fired unit is between 15 and 20 years old, it may be time to replace it. Chances are, it’s not an energy efficient machine and is costing you way more than you need to be spending to heat your home.

10. Last but not least, sell your house. If your current home is not certified by Energy Star, you can be consuming up to 30% more energy. The payback time is immediate so you can say goodbye to those astronomically high energy bills.

At Uptown Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, our heating experts specialize in furnace repair and replacement. We are available with the parts and equipment when you need them. Don’t let a frigid winter leave you in an uncomfortable home. Give us a call today at (612) 324-1004