Being energy efficient during the holiday season can be difficult with relatives leaving the doors open, 5 year olds cranking up the thermostat to 32 degrees, and just trying to escape the chilly weather in general. Here are some simple energy efficient tips that can help you stay warm during your holiday season.
Tip #1: Lower your thermostat
The first tip is also the most obvious, but usually the most difficult tip to follow. Adjusting your thermostat lower a few degrees when you are asleep or away from home can really make a difference in your overall energy efficiency. Of course, this is easier said than done, but you will notice a difference at the end of the month on your energy bill.
Instead of cranking up the heat, get cozy on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa, warm fuzzy socks, and continue whatever Netflix show you’re currently binge-watching.
Tip #2: Get a furnace tune-up
How long has it been since your furnace has had a tune-up? One year? 10 years? Can’t remember?? Get a jump-start on any potential furnace issues and improve your energy efficiency by having a professional take a look at your system. Typical tune-ups are quick and painless, and Milani offers basic furnace tune-ups for only $149.
However, sometimes repairing an aging heating system is not very cost-effective: between energy savings and incentive programs that help offset the cost of a new system, you may find it makes more financial sense to replace an obsolete heating system instead of continuing to repair and maintain it. Should you decide to replace your heating system, rely on our experience in heating services – Vancouver homeowners trust Milani to install modern high-efficiency heating systems that will save them energy and money.
Tip #3: Fix your drafts
Our third tip can be tricky to remedy, but can make a lot of difference in your monthly bills. This tip is probably the least expensive way to save some money and be energy efficient in your home this winter by ensuring that warm air is staying where it belongs.
Don’t let heat escape unnecessarily. Keep your doors and windows shut when the heat is on. If your home has a fireplace that you aren’t using, be sure the flue is closed and glass doors are in place to minimize heat loss. In addition to those bathroom ventilation fans, turn kitchen ventilation fans off when they aren’t needed.
For detailed instructions on how to fix basic drafts, check out BC Hydro’s DIY instructions.
Tip #4: Change Your Filter
Make sure you are on top of changing your filter every monthly basis if you have a standard type filter. Cleaning or replacing your furnace or air conditioning filters at the recommended time will help you ensure that your system always operates at peak performance delivering cleaner air.
Milani’s technicians can also install your replacement filters whenever necessary. Typically the filters should be replaced or washed every 1 to 3 months. An easy way to remember to change your filter is to change it when you pay your utility bill.
At the end of the day, you know that your bill will likely increase during the cold winter months in Metro Vancouver. Hopefully these tips can help you keep your heating system running smoothly, keep your in-laws quiet and warm, and stay in control of your home’s energy efficiency.