What Can I Do to Lower My Energy Bills in Murrieta?
If you’re trying to save money, a great place to start is right inside your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling your home typically makes up about 48% of your utility bill. Some of the best ways to start saving money don’t require a huge investment of money or time. If you haven’t arranged for your furnace service for the year, that’s an ideal place to start. We also have a few additional tips that can help keep your bills as low as possible.
Schedule an Energy Audit
If you get a hold of your local utility provider, they will come do an energy audit of your home. These services are usually provided free-of-charge and include everything that is popping up on your monthly bill, from your heating and cooling system to your kitchen and laundry appliances. Most utility companies also have rebates for insulation and other equipment that can improve your home’s efficiency.
Smartly Program Your Programmable Thermostat
Thermostats have come a long way, and the technology behind them only continues to evolve. For example, the iComfort S30 is able to use the GPS In your smartphone to determine when you’re leaving and makes the proper adjustment to help you save money and increase efficiency while you’re away. When you return home, everything goes to the way it was and you don’t have to worry about making any changes. It’s also able to adapt to your routine, so when baseball and football seasons kick off, your thermostat can make the correct adjustment.
The Department of Energy states that a well programmed thermostat can
reduce your heating costs by up to 35% and your cooling costs by up to 25%. Set your thermostat as low as you can, while still staying comfortable in the winter and as high as comfortable in the summer. There are a few different models to select from so pick the one that best fits your schedule and needs.
If your schedule changes often, a 7-day model is likely your best bet. They offer you the flexibility to set different programs for each day. These usually have four possible temperature periods every day.
There are also 5+2 and 5-1-1 models. These models are best if you keep the same schedule on weekdays and a separate one for weekends.
Selecting and Maintaining Your System
If you think you’re nearing the point where your system ought to be replaced, it’s a good idea to research all of your options so you can make an informed decision when the time comes. Look at the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of air conditioners and the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) of the furnaces. The higher the ratings, the higher the savings. As always, our furnace and A/C professionals will help you make a well-informed decision that adapts to you and your needs.
If you’re not at that point, a simple furnace service and routine maintenance can keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. If you haven’t arranged your furnace service for the year or are having any sort of questions about your system or options, give us a call at 951-299-9853.