Your gas bill is likely one of the highest utility bills that you have during winter, especially if your home relies on natural gas. Not only do you pay for the amount of gas that you use, but you also pay a supplier charge to the company, which amounts to a good sum.
While you can easily save money in summer when you don't use the heat as often, your bills can rise dramatically when the cold weather arrives. However, no matter how many people are in your home, you can easily lower heating costs with a few tips and tricks!
“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort." - Jane Austen
Replace Your Windows
One of the most effective ways to save on heating bill costs is to replace old windows. They often have drafts that can significantly affect your heating bills, so replacing them can bring down your natural gas bills instantly. You may find that the windows cover their installation costs in no time based on how much you save.
Add More Insulation
A good reason why your heating bills are so high is that your home doesn't have enough insulation. The material does a good job of both locking in the heat inside your home and blocking the cold air that gets inside.
With blown-in insulation, a contractor can make a small hole inside the wall and add as much insulation as you need, but an audit can define which type of insulation is the best for your home according to its size, layout, region, and how efficient your heating system is.
Get Rid of Old Appliances
A great tip experts usually give to homeowners asking for “how to lower gas bill in winter is to replace some of their old appliances. Now is a good time to look at both your furnace and water heater. A gas water heater lasts an average of eight to 12 years, while furnaces that use natural gas can last for up to 20 years. If either appliance is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might be using much more gas and energy than it should and it’s time to replace it.
Tip: If you’re looking for ways to also lower your energy bills, consider replacing your kitchen appliances as well. Newer models consume much less energy and have better efficiency ratings.
Invest in a Smart Thermostat
One of the best ways to save on heating bill costs is with a smart thermostat. It allows you to adjust the temperature in your home whenever you want because it connects to an app that runs on your phone. You turn the heat down when your family is out of the house during the day and bring the temperature back up before you come home, or you can set it up to do it automatically.
Also, smart thermostats will eventually learn your preferences and make changes automatically according to your needs.
Change Filters
Before winter starts, check the filters in your home and change them as needed. Air filters do a good job of catching the particles and germs that get into your home but they do not last forever. Make sure that you check the filter on your furnace and HVAC to ensure that it runs efficiently.
Turn the Temperature Down
A simple way to save on natural gas costs is with a temperature adjustment. Instead of cranking up the heat, try wearing a few layers of clothing and grabbing a blanket. Even wearing flannel pajamas with a hoodie will increase your body temperature and allow you to turn down the thermostat. Encourage everyone in your family to grab a blanket when they feel cold instead of rushing for the thermostat.
Look for Leaks
Your home can feel cold because of leaky doors and drafty windows. This is especially common with old wood doors that change size and shape over the years. Any paint that peels off the door leaves it exposed to the rain and snow outside.
You may find that doors and windows change shape after a long time or even due to sun exposure, which allows air to get in underneath it.
Use a Water Heater Blanket
Most home improvement stores sell water heater blankets for $50 or less. Also called insulation blankets, they are easy to install and allow the water heater to work more efficiently. The blanket completely wraps around the water heater to keep it warm and stop leaks. It allows the heater to come up to temperature faster and waste less gas.
Use Electric Heaters
Don't forget about electric heaters, too. The money that you save when you stop running air conditioners will cover the cost of running an electric heater. These heaters will lower heating costs within the first month that you use them. Though you can use one in every room, make sure that your fuse box or circuit breakers can handle the power.
Use one or more of these tips this winter to see how quickly you can save money on heating bill expenses.
Do you need a pro for a gas heating repair service? Then request a free quote today and start saving money!
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