November 20, 2015/in Environmental News /by jeng
The temperatures are falling, the nights are getting longer, and the holidays are fast approaching. This can only mean one thing: winter is coming. While winter in southeastern North Carolina can be cold! These long winter months can be hard to handle, emotionally and financially. While turning up the heat and lighting up the house can make you feel better about those cold, dark nights, it can also do a number on your energy bill. Luckily, we have rounded up five ways to keep costs down without leaving you out in the cold.
1. Turn your thermostat down a notch.
For optimal efficiency (that is, the most comfortable temperature at the most reasonable price) 68° F is the sweet spot. You can turn it down even lower at night, when you’re asleep in your warm bed, and during the day when no one is home. While these temperatures might feel cool to some, think of it as an excuse to buy a plush robe, throw an extra quilt on the bed, and cuddle with a loved one.
2. Plug up your chimney.
While a blazing fire in your fireplace is a cozy sight, a cold chimney won’t keep anyone warm! If you do not use your fireplace regularly, then warm air may be escaping your home via your chimney, even if the flue is closed. To keep this from happening, block the airflow with an inflatable chimney balloon. They can help save up to $100 per year, making them worth the upfront cost. Plus, chimney balloons are built so that if you forget to take it out before making a fire, it will automatically deflate. Whew!
3. Insulate your attic.
Many attics in southeastern North Carolina do not have the best insulation. Because our winters are mild, this step is often skimped or even skipped. This winter, bring your insulation up to code, and enjoy 20 to 30% off your monthly bill. A properly insulated attic will also be a boon in the summer by keeping your icy-cold air conditioning inside, where it belongs!
4. Reverse your ceiling fan.
Ceiling fans usually come to mind when thinking up ways to stay cool, but they are also useful tools in the quest to heat things up. Simply set your ceiling fan to a low speed and let it spin clockwise. By reversing the direction of your fan, it will push warm air, which rises, down from the ceiling and toward the floor, where you and your family can actually enjoy it.
5. Install a geothermal system.
Geothermal energy is a great way to cut down on energy costs. By switching from a traditional HVAC system to a geothermal heating and cooling system, you can save anywhere from 30 to 70% on your home heating and cooling bill each year. You might even receive a 30% tax credit from the federal government, thanks to this environmentally friendly choice. While you may have read some myths about geothermal energy, we can assure you it is an excellent choice for any home! If you are interested in exploring your geothermal options, contact Applied Resource Management today. We provide a full range of geothermal well drilling and loop system installation services.
We hope these tips have given you a few ideas to lower your energy bill this winter while still staying warm and cozy. For more tips and creative ideas for your home, your business, and your environment, follow Applied Resource Management on Facebook. In the meantime, tell us: what is your favorite way to stay warm when the days begin to cool?
