The last days of summer might have come and gone, but there’s plenty to look forward to for the season ahead. The crisp foliage, cooler air and the approaching holiday season are upon us, but so are higher energy bills.
Heating your home can be an expensive endeavor, especially when you’re trying to budget. Take a look at some of the following tips for ways to save on your home energy bills this fall. Keep Your Home Warm Without Breaking The Bank This FallShut The Drapes While keeping the drapes shut can keep your home cool in the summer, in the fall and winter months you’ll want to make sure they’re open during the daytime hours to make use of the warm, natural sunlight. Meanwhile, in the evenings, closing your drapes will provide some insulation and heat loss. In fact, according to the US Department of Energy, closing your curtains at night can reduce heat loss by up to 17%. And if you switch to thermal curtains or drapes, you can reduce heat loss by 25%! Repair Any Damage To Windows And Doors Fall is a great time to do a walk around your home's interior and exterior looking for signs of damage or blight. Pay close attention to your windows and doors, checking for cracks, condensation and drafts, taking note of anything you find that needs repairing or replacing. If new windows or doors are outside of your budget this season, don't worry--there are some excellent, inexpensive ways you can draft-proof your windows and doors.
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Give Your Heating A Check Up
In addition to walking your property and looking for damage and potential repairs, you'll want to be sure the mechanicals in your home are up to snuff. While temperatures are still relatively mild, fall is a good time to check your home's heater, boiler or HVAC system to make sure that everything is working as it should. Contact your oil or natural gas provider to schedule routine maintenance for the season. If you think your HVAC system could use an upgrade, reach out to a reputable HVAC company like Ronk Bros. Heating and Air Conditioning for advice, as well as service and repair options to help you keep your system in check.
Upgrade To A Smart Thermostat
An Energy-Star certified smart thermostat is controlled by WIFI and allows you to schedule your home's temperature throughout the day as well as monitor it remotely. A smart thermostat can save you 10% a year on your energy bill, too. Before you purchase a smart thermostat, contact your energy provider to see if they sell smart thermostats directly--sometimes they will offer an incentive (such as a discount on the purchase of the thermostat or a rebate on your energy bill). Layer Up Layering up at home is a good way to fight the cooler temperatures, and is a good excuse to get cozy for a night in on the couch. A wool blanket, a fleece pullover and a down comforter ensure you will stay warm at home without giving up comfort. In the colder months, you can add a thermal blanket, flannel sheets and a folded blanket or quilt to the foot of your bed as well.
What tips do you have for saving money on your energy bills in the cooler months? Share them with us in the comments below.
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