With the price of almost everything going up these days, we frequently need to think outside the box to cut down on costs. Homeowners are forced to evaluate all their monthly operational, maintenance, and utility expenses to see where they can save money. In turn, many people reassess their use of their heating and air conditioning systems and make efforts to reduce their use to save money on their energy bills.
We understand the need to keep up with inflation and have formulated some tips for how you can keep your home warm this winter, even if you are on a shoestring budget. Read on for expert tips and tricks for making heating more affordable in your home.
Is The Increase in Energy Costs Hurting Your Wallet?
Look, we’ve all seen it happen. The rising cost of energy has many of us looking nervously at those monthly energy bills. After all, who is eager to spend their hard-earned money on more bills? We certainly can do without it.
Aside from our budgets, energy-saving heating solutions will also help us care for the environment a whole lot better. This means these solutions will provide these benefits:
- Less greenhouse emissions
- Conservation of finite resources of energy and fuel
- Decreased air pollution
- Preserved ecosystems
Both savings of our monthly budget and environmental impact are important reasons to seek out affordable, energy-efficient solutions for keeping our homes warm during winter months.
Low-Cost DIY Solutions
The cost of energy may be rising, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any ways to still make sure you aren’t paying outrageous bills. Here are some things you can do around your home to conserve energy and heat:
Weather Stripping Windows and Doors
Weather stripping is a practice that has been used for a long time and is found to be effective at preventing drafts and heat loss. It requires weather stripping material, such as adhesive-backed foam, V-strip, or door sweeps. Once you’ve identified the cracks, gaps, and drafts in your doors and windows, you’d have to follow the instructions on the weather stripping material to apply it to those areas.
Insulating Hot Water Pipes
Another cost-effective DIY project that can help conserve energy, reduce heat loss, and lower your energy bills is insulation. To insulate your hot water pipes follow these steps:
- Measure the pipe length
- Choose suitable foam or fiberglass insulation sleeves
- Cut the sleeves to match the pipe length
- Open the sleeves and wrap them around the pipes
- Securing the pipes with duct tape or zip ties for a snug fit
- Inspect for gaps and seal with additional insulation or tape
- Run hot water to test insulation effectiveness
DIY Thermal Curtains
Another great option you have to conserve heat in the home and keep energy bills low is to hang up some thermal curtains. These curtains help keep the outside temperatures out and keep the warmth inside. Thus, your heating system won’t need to work as hard or as long to keep your home warm.
Space Heaters: A Cost-Effective Alternative
Aside from DIY solutions, you can also opt for space heaters. These allow you to create zone heating to create warmth in the specific area you’re using at the moment. As a result, you won’t need to power a whole house heating system especially if you’re sitting in one area for a prolonged period of time.
Smart Thermostats and Energy Management
Another great way to reduce energy expenditures when operating a heating system is to invest in a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats have the ability to memorize your temperature preferences and operate the heater only when required to reach your desired temperatures. The smart thermostat will also automatically power down the heat when nobody is home and can be controlled by an app on your phone. Thanks to these capabilities, you won’t be overusing your heating system and making those heating bills skyrocket.
Government Incentives for High-Tier Efficiency Heating Installations
If you’re really trying to save money on energy now and in the long run, you also have the option of upgrading your heating system with a whole new, energy-efficient installation. The federal government created a program through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 that provides federal tax credits for those homeowners who install a qualifying heating system that operates at high-efficiency levels. This tax credit can make up to 30% of the purchasing and installation costs of a new heating system. Contact us to learn more about this program.
Call Us For Affordable Heating Solutions!
Are you looking for energy-saving heating options for your home this winter season? The heating contractors at QRC are prepared to help you save energy and money with our superior heating solutions. Call us now to learn about your options and to schedule a service.
FAQ for Efficient Heating
What is the most energy-efficient heating option?
The most energy-efficient heating option varies based on factors like climate and space size. Geothermal heat pumps, air source heat pumps, solar heating systems, high-efficiency furnaces, hydronic (radiant) heating, and ductless mini-split systems are among the top choices. Selection should consider individual needs, local climate, and environmental impact, with professional advice ensuring the optimal solution.
What are the most common heating systems?
The most common heating systems include forced air systems, boilers and radiators, heat pumps, ductless mini splits, and electric resistance heaters.