Winter is here, and with it comes big energy bills that can bust your budget. Let’s explore some tips to help you save money while keeping you warm and safe.
Set Moderate Temperatures
Every degree you lower your heating can result in a 1% savings on your energy bill. Indoor temperatures as low as 64 degrees Fahrenheit are safe for adults, according to the World Health Organization. As low as 68 degrees is safe for children and seniors. You don’t necessarily have to keep it that low, but consider dressing warmer and adjusting your temps based on that.
Consider your water heater as well. The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates it can account for nearly 20% of your energy bill. Most new water heaters come set to 140 degrees, but most people don’t need it that high. Setting it to 120 degrees provides comfortable hot water and avoids scalding while saving you a considerable amount of money.
Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
Ideally, you should schedule heating maintenance in the fall and cooling maintenance in the spring. That said, it’s never too late to schedule if you missed your fall appointment. There are many reasons to schedule regular tune-ups, but for energy efficiency, it’s all about cleaning and calibration. Unmaintained furnaces and boilers can easily burn 10% to 15% more fuel. Unmaintained heat pumps can lose between 10% and 25% of their efficiency.
Seal Your Ducts
The DOE estimates that air leakage in ducts is at least 20% in the average home and can be as high as 40%. That’s a significant amount that can undermine your comfort and hit you in the wallet. Consider scheduling a duct camera inspection alongside your tune-up. Using a high-definition camera and pressure testing, a technician can determine if you have leakage. If you do, there are ways to lower it to under 5%. That includes the use of a non-toxic aerosol sealant. There are also manual duct sealing options, including insulation and masking.
Benefit From a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
The DOE estimates that the average household can save up to 10% on heating and cooling with a programmable thermostat. That’s possible through scheduling, which can lower your costs while sleeping and at work. Smart thermostats offer alternatives to scheduling, such as geofencing. They also offer other money-saving features, including energy monitoring and adaptive learning.
Use a High-Quality HVAC Filter and Change It Regularly
Upgrade to a premium, thick HVAC filter you won’t have to swap out as often. HVAC filters have Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings. Make sure not to exceed the highest MERV rating your system supports. Check the filter at least once a month, and replace it as needed. You’ll know because there will be dust on the surface. That means the filter itself is saturated.
Maintain Optimal Humidity
Relative humidity (RH) affects how you perceive temperature. If RH is too low, you’ll need a higher temperature, which will increase your costs. Aim for at least 30 RH, according to the EPA. That may require a humidifier to add water vapor to the air. Portable humidifiers are one option. Whole-house systems are more convenient and can save you money long term.
Insulate Your Water Heater
For all water heaters, you should have insulation on the hot water pipe. Check it, and replace it if it’s worn. If you have an electric water heater, consider additional insulation. That can include an insulated base and a water heater jacket.
Lower Your Utah Energy Bills in 2025
Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing is a locally owned and operated HVAC and plumbing contractor serving American Fork, UT and the surrounding areas. Our HVAC company provides both residential and commercial services. We have HVAC technicians who specialize in boilers, radiant heating, furnaces, heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, and air conditioners. Our team installs and services ductwork, ventilation systems, and humidifiers.
We have plumbers that specialize in gas, water, and sewer piping. Our team cleans drains and finds and repairs leaks. You can also count on us for kitchen and bathroom fixtures, tank and tankless water heaters, water softeners, and much more. Call us today to learn more about our energy-efficient solutions in Utah.
