Don’t Get Pinched by High Heating and Cooling Costs
The cost of staying comfortable can be high, as heating and cooling can account for huge portions of monthly utility bills. However, there are several opportunities for homeowners to lower their monthly costs. Homeowners can noticeably reduce their heating and cooling bills by following some advice. Here are some tips to help homeowners save money on heating and cooling while staying comfortable.
Use the Ceiling Fans Correctly
Ceiling fans are often misused in homes, as people may not know they can also help save energy and reduce costs while using the heater, not just the air conditioner. To utilize ceiling fans properly, remember to switch the direction in which they spin according to the season and whether the AC or heating is running:
- Counterclockwise: Ceiling fans should turn counterclockwise in the summer when cooling is needed. This causes a refreshing downdraft and makes a space feel cooler, allowing homeowners to raise the thermostat without sacrificing comfort and reducing energy use.
- Clockwise: To use ceiling fans in the winter or when heating is needed, set them to turn clockwise. Doing so allows the fan to push air upwards and create an updraft that circulates the warm air. This helps improve the comfort and temperature of the home, allowing less reliance on the heater or furnace so that energy can be saved.
Change Air Filters on Time
One of the easiest ways to keep utility bills low is to make sure there aren’t clogged or dirty air filters in the system, blocking airflow and causing the AC or heater to work harder and use more energy. By changing out the AC and furnace filters when needed, usually at least every three months, homeowners can help with the energy efficiency of their system and lower costs.
Replacing the filters on time also leads to cleaner air in the home. The air filters capture dust and other allergens to protect the heater and air conditioner and prevent the particles from affecting their performance or circulating throughout the home. However, neglecting to change the filters will also affect the system’s performance, so they need to be replaced on time.
Get a Smart Thermostat
Another way to lower utility bills is with a smart thermostat installation. Installing a smart thermostat in a home can significantly reduce its energy consumption. They can learn the household’s schedule and temperature preferences, making automatic adjustments to ensure the home is comfortable when people are home and energy-efficient when they are away. By maintaining optimal heating and cooling patterns, smart thermostats can lead to substantial savings on utility bills.
Additionally, they offer the convenience of remote control through smartphone apps, allowing homeowners to make adjustments on the go and track their energy usage in real-time. This blend of convenience, efficiency, and control makes smart thermostats a wise investment for the eco-conscious homeowner and anyone looking to cut down on their monthly expenses.
About Lambert Plumbing & Heating, LTD
Lambert Plumbing & Heating, LTD has been serving Vancouver and the surrounding areas since 1977. They provide 24/7 emergency service, upfront pricing, and clean, respectful technicians. Call them for heating and air conditioning services in Vancouver, BC.
