Heating is essential during the winter season here in New York, but that means high bills as temperatures drop. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 43% of a typical utility bill can go toward household heating. As temperatures drop and families spend more time indoors, heating is a necessity rather than a luxury. At the same time, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that heating costs have risen steadily for the past decade and show no signs of falling any time soon. Fortunately, you can take steps to help lower utility costs. A look at the reasons for higher energy bills and tips to reduce costs can guide you as you plan for the coldest months of the year.
Reasons for Higher Winter Heating Bills
Several factors can contribute to soaring heating bills during winter. These include seasonal peaking, extended usage periods, lack of maintenance, poor insulation, or incorrect thermostat settings.
1. Winter Peaking
Winter peaking refers to the increased demand for power to heat buildings during cold weather. As more individuals turn on their heating units, this heavy demand can strain the power grid. Many energy providers adjust rates to compensate for this peak season. As a result, your bill is often higher this time of the year.
2. Extensive Power Usage and Periods
Since winter has shorter sunlight hours and home occupants typically spend more time indoors, heating cycles run more frequently. Many individuals also supplement conventional heating with space heaters and other appliances that add to energy consumption and raise utility bills.
3. Outdated or Neglected Systems
Outdated heating systems draw more power from the grid. As appliances age, their annual efficiency decreases. They consume more energy to produce the same amount of heat. In addition, heating units need annual tune-ups and regular maintenance. Lack of upkeep can result in wasted energy that raises heating bills.
4. Poor Sealing or Insulation
Poorly sealed windows or drafty doors can allow heating to escape from your home. This forces your units to work harder to maintain consistent indoor temperatures, and it can spike your heating expenses. Homes with poor insulation can also lose heat through the walls or roof. Your system may end up working overtime, and you will spend more money as a result.
5. Improper Thermostat Settings
Turning your thermostat setting up too high can force your heating system to cycle on too often. Although some people mistakenly believe that a high thermostat setting warms the home faster, it mostly forces your heater to work harder for longer stretches.
Ways To Reduce Winter Heating Bills
The good news is there are ways to lower your heating bills. These tips include upgrading to a programmable thermostat, using heating sources properly, and scheduling annual HVAC maintenance.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat that helps you monitor your home’s energy usage. Programmable thermostats allow you to automate your heating schedules. For example, reduce the temperature when you are away from home or sleeping. According to the Department of Energy, this adjustment may help you save up to 10% on annual heating bills.
Leverage Natural Heat Sources
Harness the power of existing heating sources to avoid relying solely on your furnace. For example, capitalize on solar heating by opening the curtains on the south-facing windows during daylight hours. This lets sunlight maintain warm temperatures in the house. Replace ordinary drapes with insulated or thermal curtains and close them at night to help conserve heat. Seal window gaps with caulk or weatherstripping. And if you have a ceiling fan, set the blades to rotate clockwise to push warm air down into the room.
Upgrade to an Efficient Heater
Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR-certified appliance may boost efficiency and help you save on bills. If your heater is over 10 years old or has already undergone several repairs, consider replacing it. According to peer-reviewed research from the Department of Energy, up to 90% of homes can potentially lower bills by switching to newer equipment. For instance, an ENERGY STAR furnace uses up to $80 less in energy each year compared to traditional models. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, you may be eligible for tax credits of up to $3,200 for energy-efficient upgrades ranging from attic insulation to a new heat pump.
Schedule Heating System Maintenance
Regular heating maintenance service helps ensure peak system performance. During a maintenance session, a technician can inspect your system, replace dirty filters, and service key components or worn-out parts. This upkeep goes a long way in preventing defective parts that would otherwise consume more energy.
Contact Us Today
Although heating costs can rise sharply during the winter, the experts are here to help. Heatwave Heating & Cooling provides heating system services for homes in Amherst and surrounding areas. We offer installation and maintenance for furnaces and boilers. Our technicians can also troubleshoot heating problems or help you upgrade heat pumps or ductless systems. We can help with everything from ducts to tankless water heaters, and we offer 24/7 emergency repairs for problems that cannot wait. No matter the issue, we can assist you. Contact Heatwave Heating & Cooling today for all of your HVAC needs.
