5 Ways to Reduce Your Energy Bill This Winter

As winter sets in, Milwaukee homeowners often face the challenge of keeping their homes warm while managing high energy bills. At E & R Heating and Cooling, we understand the importance of staying cozy without breaking the bank. Here are five practical tips to help you lower your energy costs this winter.

1. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

An efficient heating system is key to reducing energy costs. Regular maintenance ensures your furnace is running at peak performance. Our professional technicians at E & R Heating and Cooling can clean, inspect, and tune up your system, preventing costly breakdowns and improving efficiency.

Pro Tip: Change your furnace filter every 1-3 months during heavy use to maintain optimal airflow and efficiency.

Maintaining your furnace not only saves money but also extends the life of your system. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and ensuring consistent heating throughout your home. In addition to the financial benefits, regular tune-ups help identify and resolve potential safety issues, such as carbon monoxide leaks, before they become a problem.

2. Seal Drafty Windows and Doors

Cold air can sneak in through gaps in windows and doors, making your furnace work harder. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal these gaps. Installing insulated curtains or thermal blinds can also help retain heat inside your home.

DIY Tip: Test for drafts by holding a lit candle near the edges of windows and doors. If the flame flickers, you’ve found a leak.

Drafty windows and doors can account for a significant portion of heat loss in your home. Taking the time to address these issues not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances comfort by eliminating cold spots. For an added layer of insulation, consider using window film kits during the winter months. These affordable solutions are easy to apply and can make a noticeable difference in retaining heat.

3. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat can adjust your home’s temperature automatically based on your schedule. Lowering the temperature by just a few degrees while you’re asleep or away can lead to significant savings.

Energy-Saving Fact: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% on heating costs annually.

Smart thermostats are not only convenient but also provide detailed insights into your energy usage. Many models can learn your preferences over time and make automatic adjustments to optimize efficiency. Additionally, you can control your thermostat remotely via a smartphone app, allowing you to manage your home’s heating even when you’re away. This is especially helpful for Milwaukee homeowners who might travel during the winter holidays.

4. Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation keeps warm air inside, reducing the workload on your heating system. Focus on insulating your attic, walls, and basement. Don’t forget to insulate ducts in unheated areas to prevent heat loss.

Milwaukee Insight: Homes in Wisconsin can lose up to 25% of their heat through uninsulated attics. Investing in insulation pays off quickly in energy savings.

Insulation is a long-term investment that yields significant returns. Not only does it lower energy bills, but it also improves your home’s overall comfort and resale value. If you’re unsure where to start, a home energy audit can identify the areas where insulation improvements are needed most. For older Milwaukee homes, upgrading insulation can be particularly impactful, as many were built before modern energy efficiency standards were established.

5. Utilize Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Switch your fan to run clockwise at a low speed during winter. This helps circulate warm air trapped near the ceiling back down to where you need it most.

Bonus Tip: Combine this with proper vent placement to maximize heat distribution throughout your home.

Using ceiling fans strategically can help balance the temperature in your home, reducing the strain on your heating system. This simple adjustment is especially beneficial in rooms with high ceilings, where warm air tends to rise and remain unused. Remember to keep fan speeds low to avoid creating a draft while still improving heat circulation.

Additional Tips for Saving Energy This Winter

• Close Unused Rooms: If you have rooms that aren’t frequently used, close the doors and vents to direct heat to areas where it’s needed most.

• Layer Up: Wearing warm clothing and using blankets can allow you to set your thermostat a few degrees lower without sacrificing comfort.

• Use a Humidifier: Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so adding a humidifier can make your home feel more comfortable at lower temperatures.

• Take Advantage of Sunlight: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let in natural heat from the sun, and close them at night to retain warmth.

• Maintain Your Water Heater: Lowering the temperature setting on your water heater to 120 degrees can save energy while still providing plenty of hot water.

Reducing your energy bill doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. By taking these steps, you can keep your home warm and energy-efficient all winter long. For expert assistance with furnace tune-ups, smart thermostat installation, or any heating needs, contact E & R Heating and Cooling. Let us help you stay cozy this winter while saving money on your energy bills.

Schedule your furnace tune-up today! Call us at (414) 202 5001