Winter is upon us and with winter comes cold weather. We hope you enjoyed a month or two of low energy bills with your air conditioner shut down for the season and no need for a furnace yet. If you are like most people, you are looking for ways to save money this holiday season. NY NJ AC Connection is here to share some tips that can save you in energy costs this holiday season.
Check for Air Leaks & Drafts Around Windows & Doors
A lot of warm air escapes your windows and doors if you haven’t properly prepared them for winter. Check the weather stripping on your windows and doors for signs of wear. If you notice it looks brittle and has cracks in it, you need to replace it because it isn’t going to work properly when it is old and worn. You should also look at your front door. If you can see daylight pouring in from around the edges of your door, it isn’t ready for winter. Some doors allow you to adjust your threshold with the turn of a few screws. This will help get rid of that gap underneath your door and keep warm air in your home. If you have old windows and aren’t planning on replacing them before winter hits, consider winterizing them with plastic to eliminate drafts. You can buy inexpensive kits that will save you money this winter.
Lock Windows in Winter for a Tighter Seal
Have you noticed that when you lock your windows it pulls the window shut a little tighter? This is your window pressing up against the weather stripping. If they aren’t locked, then they aren’t making enough contact with the weather stripping and cold air will make its way in while warm air is escaping your home.
Chimney Balloon in Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, it is most likely blazing during the winter months and especially during the holiday season. If you aren’t using your fireplace, it can allow warm air to escape via the chimney. One way to fix this problem is with a chimney balloon. It is inflated when the fireplace is in use and deflated when it isn’t. If you forget to deflate it before starting the fire, don’t worry, it will deflate on its own to avoid smoke filling your home.
Replace & Upgrade Your Thermostat
When you switch over to a programmable thermostat, you can end up saving about 10 percent on your energy bill. It has been proven that if you can turn your thermostat down 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day, it saves you money. This can be done while you are not home during the day, or while you are sleeping at night.
Furnace & Boiler Emergency Repairs, Installation & Maintenance Services in Manhattan, New York City
Having your furnace or boiler inspected and maintained by a professional before turning it on for the season will ensure your heater is working efficiently. When your furnace or boiler is properly maintained, it will not take as much energy to make heat, and therefore save you money in the long run. If you have any problems with your heater as you turn it on this winter, NY NJ AC Connection can get it up and running in no time. Don’t sit in the cold, call today!
