Shocked by Your Electric Bill?
- Reduce Your Energy Cost Comfortably -

by Scott Kelly, 12/2009

Last month’s extreme cold means this month’s electric bills just might chill us to the bone.

But don’t simply assume high heating costs are the price we must pay to stay warm. True, we can’t control the weather—nor the fact that Duke Energy Corp. just announced a residential rate increase of more than 9 percent—but there ARE steps you can take to reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.

Invest in an Energy Star-rated programmable thermostat. This practical device yields instant savings, cutting the average homeowner’s energy bill by $180 per year. Simply set the programmable thermostat at energysaving temperatures for any period of time—such as during the work/school day—when nobody is home, and schedule warmer temps fo just before everyone returns. These energy-saving thermostats come with multiple preprogrammed temperature settings for typical weekday and weekend routines; there is also a mode for extended time away, such as vacations. After all, why pay to heat an empty house?

Commit to consistent maintenance. Keep your HVAC system running at maximum efficiency by cleaning and/ or replacing air filters every few months. Schedule an annual check-up with a Carolina Heating Service specialist who will inspect details such as thermostats, electrical connections, wear and tear on moving parts, condensation drains and more, thus pinpointing— and preventing—potential problems that might be decreasing comfort or increasing costs.

Work with the environment. Let the sun shine in! Be sure to open blinds, shades and curtains, especially on south-facing windows, on sunny winter days. (Close them at night to keep the heat inside.)

Don’t let warm air escape. Inefficient ductwork reduces heating capacity while increasing heating costs, so talk to your Carolina Heating Service specialist about properly sealing HVAC ducts. Also install a tight-fitting damper on your fireplace; weather-strip doors and caulk all windows; and consider upgrading your attic’s insulation.

Carolina Heating Service specializes in indoor weather solutions including residential and commercial heating/ air conditioning systems.

Contact us at 864.232.5684 or 866.488.4688 or visit our Contact Page