Though many people automatically associate energy efficiency and winter weather with more northern climates, Floridians can also save a bundle by following some basic energy-saving tips this winter. Here’s what to remember.
Winter Weather Energy Saving Tips
- Take advantage of solar heat gain. If you have south- or west-facing windows on your home, leave the curtains open in the afternoon. The sunlight shining in will warm your home.
- Have drafty windows? Cover them using clear plastic sheeting on double-sided tape or mounting the sheeting on a frame that will fit into the window frame. Fit the sheeting tightly, and if you still have a strong draft, consider adding close-fitting thermal draperies or shades.
- Invest in a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature down at times when you expect to be away from home and then back up before you return, ensuring you’ll always have a comfortable temperature in your house.
- Use a piece of incense or a candle flame to locate drafts in your home. Once located, use caulking or expanding foam to block the drafts. Just remember, stick to low-expanding foam for areas around windows or doors so the pressure of the foam doesn’t warp the frames and jam them shut.
- Have you had your HVAC system serviced for the season? A poorly maintained HVAC system runs more often to keep up and generates more wear and tear on your system, leading to a shorter lifespan and expensive repairs.
- Change your HVAC system’s air filter. A dirty air filter can cause your system’s blower to run excessively and under a heavier load than it is intended to operate under, leading to wear and tear on the system.
- Do you have a fireplace? Make sure the flue is closed to prevent your warm indoor air from going out the chimney. Consider adding glass doors to block the air loss as well as a heat-exchanging blower that pushes the warm air around the fireplace enclosure back into your home.
- With the holiday season approaching, try out new LED lights that save significant amounts of energy compared to traditional lights. As a bonus, the light bulbs last longer, saving the aggravating “find the burned out bulb” game.
With these tips in mind, it’s easy to save money this winter with just a little thought and work. Aside from providing Orlando air conditioning service, we always strive to help our clients save money on their utility bills. Contact us today to find out how much difference the right service can make.
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