Ways to Heat Your California Home and Cut Energy Costs in Half
When you’re a homeowner, there’s a chance you’ll be looking for ways to cut your spending in half and maximize your savings. From repainting the dining room yourself to eating at home more, there are many different avenues to do this — however, one that tends to go overlooked is how to heat your humble abode for less.
While heating your living space doesn’t seem like a considerable cost — especially since we live in Southern California — you’d be surprised at how high your energy bill can spike throughout the winter months, regardless of how often you use your heater.
Here are some ways you can keep your home cozy for a fraction of the cost.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
While your current thermostat may appear to be in good working order, there’s a chance it’s holding you back from maximum savings — how so? Simple: You’re only able to adjust the temperature up or down, not program your home’s heating schedule. To cut costs in half, consider having a programmable thermostat installed!
Smart thermostats are an excellent way to stay in-tune with your home’s heating system. With the capability to be controlled by a smartphone, you’ll be able to create your heating schedule. This provides you with maximum control, shutting the heater on or off within a specific timeframe.
Another perk about a programmable thermostat is that the device can alert you if there’s an issue with your heater — such as a broken or malfunctioning part. When this is the case, you’ll be able to call and schedule a repair appointment sooner rather than later; which helps extend your unit's lifespan and keep it running smoothly.
Maintenance is a Must
Just like you wouldn’t skip an annual physical examination with your physician, the same concept should apply to your home’s heater. Over the years, your heater may start to encounter some performance problems due to its age. When this happens, your unit may begin to use more energy than needed to continue to keep your humble abode as warm as can be.
During a maintenance appointment, a professional HVAC technician will carefully inspect every crevice of your heating system to make sure that it’s up to par. If they notice anything that needs immediate attention — such as replacing the filter — they’ll be able to take care of it on the spot. However, if they spot something rather peculiar, the technician will present you with a plan of action on how they’ll be able to resolve the problem.
Don’t Ignore an Ailing Unit
If your heater requires frequent repair or has seen better days, you may want to consider replacing your unit altogether. As mentioned earlier, if your home’s comfort system is ailing or is up there in age, it may be using much more energy than needed to get the job done — which can strain your heater, as well as increase your utility bills.
Another thing to consider is that a newer unit will provide you with peace of mind. Although we live in Southern California and don’t have to worry about snowfall and frigid temperatures, some days require a little heat in your home; you wouldn’t want to be without a working heater when that day arrives.
Always Replace the Filter
Did you know that most homeowners forgo changing their furnace filters? When that happens, it can turn a well-functioning unit into a tired, frigid one in a matter of weeks. Just like your central air conditioner, a furnace needs a clean filter to “breathe” and provide clean heat.
When a heater has an older filter in place, all those airborne contaminants caked on the surface can make it much more difficult for the furnace to distribute heat evenly and work efficiently. To keep your furnace in pristine condition, consider replacing the filter about every three months (or sooner) to maintain optimal performance.
Professional Home Heating Services in Glendale, CA
For the best residential heating services in Glendale and the surrounding areas, Moe Plumbing Services is here to help!
Give us a call at (818) 396-8002 to schedule your appointment!