How to Save On Heating and Cooling Costs

STAFF
Published: April 17, 2008

Ronnie Ritchie Service Co., Inc.
   
As much as half of the energy you consume goes to heat and cool your home. That’s why it’s important to look for every way possible to save on energy costs in our homes.

    You can begin by investing in your current heating and air conditioning systems. Maintaining these systems properly every year will allow them to run up to 10% more efficiently. Having a service plan, which includes annual maintenance, is the best way to save money on your heating and air conditioning costs.

    It also pays to monitor your air filtration system. Air filters need to be checked and changed on a routine basis. A dirty filter or a too-restrictive filter can increase your energy costs by 5% to 15%. Most of the “high efficiency” air filters on the retail market today are too restrictive and can cause significant system problems.

    Consider having an overall energy audit of your home. An expert will visually inspect the air duct system, windows, doors, insulation, and the heating and cooling systems to determine how you can make the most of your energy dollar. Leaking and partially clogged air duct systems could be costing you up to 20% more in heating and cooling costs annually. Sealing your air duct system can save up to $140.00 per year.

 
  Install a digital, programmable thermostat. It gives you the ability to set different temperatures when you’re at home, away, sleeping and at night. Actively using the “set back” features can save up to 10% on your annual heating and cooling costs.

    Consider installing a whole house humidifier. The inside of your home in the winter can be drier than the desert. A properly humidified home will feel more comfortable at a lower temperature. The higher the humidity in a home, the lower your thermostat can be set, and the lower your heating bills—up to 5% savings annually.

    If your heat pump or your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, or your furnace or boiler is over 15 years old, it’s time to invest in a more efficient model. The savings you will realize in energy costs and repair bills will justify the new system. New advances in technology make them much more efficient, translating into savings in the long run as well as improved comfort.

    David Ritchie, Vice President of Ronnie Ritchie Service Co., Inc. has some helpful hints on how to save on your heating and cooling costs. ?To keep from being, as they say left in the cold or stuck in the heat, get your system serviced on a regular basis with a company that offers a Preventive Maintenance Program. Get on a schedule to suit your system?s needs. Some other ideas would be to replace your system?s filters on a regular basis and to invest in a digital programmable thermostat to save energy and lower your monthly bills.?