Weekly Tips
1. Install a programmable thermostat. This simple replacement can help reduce your energy costs each month. Consistent temperature control is key to lowering fuel usage and saving money. BEL-O offers a variety of thermostats designed to keep your home comfortable while helping you save. Call to find out more about all of the options available!
2. If you are looking to heat your home more evenly and efficiently this winter make sure your registers aren’t blocked. Closing registers may seem like a simple way to direct heat where you want it most, but this isn’t necessarily the case. The air from your heating equipment needs to flow freely, and having too many air vents blocked causes stress on your HVAC system. The harder the system has to work, the more your energy bills increase. This additional stress can damage your system, leading to costly repairs that could have been prevented. So check your homes air vents to make sure they are open and the heat is flowing properly.
3. Take a moment to make sure that your heat pump is clear of snow or excessive ice. In order for the unit to work properly snow and ice need to be removed. You can accomplish this by turning the heat pump to emergency heat or shutting the system off completely and then removing the build-up. Make sure you DO NOT use any sharp objects around the coils because this could cause severe damage to the equipment and potential injury. Once the unit is clear the thermostat can be returned to its normal settings. If you find the system still isn’t working properly it is time to call for service.
4. Most water heaters come with a pre-set temperature of 140 degrees, but by lowering this setting to 120 degrees you can greatly reduce your energy usage while keeping the water warm enough for comfortable use. Every 10 degrees the temperature setting is lowered can save you 3 to 5 percent on your energy bill! Lowering the temperature also benefits your system by creating less mineral build-up and corrosion, helping your equipment last longer and run more efficiently.