How to Save Energy in Winter

Even in places with relatively mild winters like Peachtree City, Georgia, your utility bills can increase in cold weather. Fortunately, you can conserve power, save money, and make yourself and your family more comfortable with some easy changes. Save energy in winter by using your ceiling fans, adding insulation, installing a programmable thermostat, and maintaining your HVAC system.

Use Your Ceiling Fans

Many people waste energy by forgetting to use their ceiling fans in winter. In summer, they turn counterclockwise to create a breeze. In winter, you can climb a stepladder and use the small switch near the light fixture to change each fan to clockwise. That way, it can circulate warm air from the ceiling to the rest of the room. This redistribution of heat will help you and your family feel warmer. You won’t need to use your heater as much, so you’ll save energy and lower your utility bills. You can extend your system’s life by reducing wear, as well.

Ceiling fans also help your heater by circulating air through your home when your HVAC system’s fan isn’t on. You only have to use ceiling fans in occupied rooms, and they can help people adjust the temperatures in their bedrooms without impacting the rest of your home. Additional ceiling fans can also increase the value of your home. They’ll pay for themselves through energy savings if you use them often.

Add Insulation

Many types of insulation become less effective as they age. Pests can chew holes in insulation, and they sometimes use the material to build their nests. Even if your home’s insulation is relatively new, adding more can improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency. It is an inexpensive upgrade, and it can help you eliminate cold spots and increase your comfort.

Add weatherstripping to any doors or windows with cracks or gaps. Caulk is easy to apply, and you can add it to light fixtures and electrical outlets to prevent leaks. Check your attic for damaged or dirty insulation and get an expert to replace it if needed. In many homes, you can change the height of the thresholds underneath doors to make weatherstripping more effective.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

With a programmable thermostat, you can turn down your HVAC system automatically while you are asleep or away from home. That way, you can save energy by using your heater and air conditioner less. You also won’t have to remember to adjust your thermostat manually if you want to save.

Before you wake up or come home, a programmable thermostat can return your house to a more comfortable temperature automatically. Some models come with their own remote controls, and you can control others through your computer or smartphone. A smart thermostat can communicate with motion sensors or cameras to learn your routine over time. A programmable thermostat with zoning can control more than one HVAC system or a ductless system with several indoor units. You can avoid heating or cooling unoccupied areas or zones and make your family more comfortable.

Maintain Your HVAC System

To keep your HVAC system working efficiently, have your heater checked by the professionals at Trinity Air Inc. Heating and Air Conditioning in the winter. When the days start getting warm again, you should have your air conditioner inspected, as well. Regular maintenance will prevent problems that could become worse or even force you to replace your system. It helps you avoid uncomfortable breakdowns and keep your energy use low.

You should also change your system’s air filter at least every few months. A clogged filter will reduce your heater or air conditioner’s airflow and efficiency. It can also spread dirt, dust, bad smells, or bacteria. Keep pine needles, leaves, dirt, and other debris away from your outdoor unit, and trim any vegetation nearby.

Trinity Air Inc. Heating and Air Conditioning has more than 25 years of HVAC experience. We can help you save energy and stay comfortable in the winter with a range of heating, cooling, and indoor air quality equipment. For outstanding service, call us anytime at (770) 691-5394.

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