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Energy Saving Tips

Energy Saving Tips

Are your home energy bills increasing significantly this winter? Higher utility bills are not always attributed to colder temperatures. Depending on the age and condition of your oil furnace and the rest of your HVAC system, you could be paying more to heat your home than expected.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), residential consumers can expect to pay between $2.56 – 3.08 per gallon of heating oil in 2015. With an average estimated price of $2.90 per gallon, the average U.S. household will spend approximately $1,586 this winter on heating oil. Keep reading to learn how you can save oil and money by following these five easy steps:

5 Energy Saving Tips for Oil Furnaces

1.) Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

The easiest way to ensure your oil furnace is operating at its peak performance levels is to schedule an HVAC tune-up from a heating and cooling contractor like American Mechanical ! Your HVAC contractor will send a technician to carefully inspect each aspect of your heating system and fine-tune any necessary parts. Doing so will increase the energy efficiency of your oil furnace.

2.) Seal Cracks & Gaps

During the winter, warm air often escapes your home through tiny cracks and gaps between windows, walls, doors, and other entryways. This causes your heating system to work more often and for longer periods of time to effectively heat your home. Seal any cracks or gaps with caulk, weather-proof sealant, or draft guards.

3.) Clean or Change Air Filters

One of the most common reasons your heating system operates inefficiently during the winter is blocked or clogged air filters throughout your home. Blocked or dirty air filters result in poor air flow and decreased comfort levels throughout your home. We recommend inspecting your air filters every 30-45 days to determine if they need cleaning or replacing.

4.) Clean or Seal Your Air Ducts

Another common cause of high energy bills are cracks or holes in your heating system’s ductwork. Inadequate air sealing, or improperly sized/installed ductwork can cause warm air to leak from your ducts and significantly decrease the energy efficiency of your oil furnace.

5.) Use Natural Light

To maximize savings this winter, try using natural light to help heat your home. Although outdoor temperatures may be too cold for comfort, open up blinds and curtains to allow natural sunlight to beam through your windows and increase temperatures inside your home.

Furnace Services in Virginia Beach, VA

American Mechanical is one of the most trusted HVAC companies in Virginia Beach. Our certified HVAC technicians have the tools and skill set to install, repair, and service any oil furnace in the Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Newport News areas. Contact us to schedule your furnace service today!