The cooling season is winding down in San Diego, and soon, it’ll be time to start paying to heat your home. The energy price in San Diego is still rising, and if you’re dreading the high utility bills from staying warm in the winter, it’s time to jump on some tasks that can save you money. These fall and winter energy-saving tips will reduce your heating bills without compromising your comfort.
Maintain The Heating System
The first defense against high winter energy bills is annual preventive maintenance on your heating system. A trained technician from Paulson AC will perform tasks that improve energy efficiency and help prevent common issues that reduce comfort and compromise efficiency. You can help improve and maintain your San Diego HVAC efficiency by performing these maintenance tasks:
- Stock up on air filters. Inspect the air filter every month and replace it when it’s dirty to ensure optimum airflow.
- Seal air leaks. Seal leaky doors and windows with caulk and weatherstripping, and apply expandable caulk to significant gaps around pipes, vents, and other service entrances.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Program your thermostat to lower the temperature by 10 to 15 degrees when you’re away from your home. Every degree you set back the thermostat for eight hours can save you up to 2 percent on your heating bill.
- Seal and insulate the ductwork. Leaky ducts account for up to 40 percent of the air inside leaking out before it reaches your rooms. Seal loose joints and Insulate ducts in crawl spaces, attics, and other unconditioned areas to keep the air inside warm and prevent mold growth from condensation.
Lower The Thermostat
You can save much money throughout the San Diego winter by keeping your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower. If you like to be toasty, here are a few energy-saving tips that will keep your warm with a low thermostat.
- Reverse the direction of ceiling fan blades. Your fan will push down the warm air that gathers near the ceiling and distribute it evenly throughout the rooms.
- Keep window shades open during the day and close them at night to keep the heat inside.
- Bundle up in a warm blanket to help you stay warm while watching TV or working on the computer.
- Turn the thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees while you sleep, and keep extra blankets or an electric blanket around for extra warmth.
- Take advantage of the heat generated from cooking.
Use Less Water and Water Heating
Fall and winter energy-saving tips extend beyond your heating system. Heating water accounts for about 20 percent of your annual utilities. Save money on your water and water heating bills in San Diego with these tips:
- Lower the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees. Higher settings cost more, increase the risk of scalding, and promote sediment buildup and corrosion in the heater’s tank.
- Insulate the water heater tank and the exposed pipes to save up to 9 percent on water heating.
- Install low-flow fixtures in the bathroom and kitchen.
- Run the dishwasher and washer on the shortest cycle.
- Use cold water to wash clothes to save money and preserve fabrics.
- Limit showers to 10 minutes or less.
Remember Your Lighting
Keeping your home well-lit can cost you a pretty penny.
- Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps, which use 75 percent less electricity.
- Put outdoor lights on a timer to ensure they’re on only during the dark hours.
Contact Paulson Air Conditioning for any home or business heating installation or service needs. Servicing all of San Diego County.
