Keep Warm and Save with Natural Gas Heating
When temperatures being to drop, many homeowners look for ways to stay warm without driving up energy costs. Natural gas is one of the most efficient and cost-effective options for heating your home. With a few smart practices, you can make the most of your natural gas heating system and save on your energy bill while keeping your home cozy and comfortable.
1. Set Your Thermostat for Savings
A simple adjustment in thermostat settings can significantly impact energy costs:
- Lower the Temperature at Night: Turning down the thermostat by 7-10°F for eight hours overnight can save you up to 10% annually on heating costs.
- Invest in a Programmable Thermostat: Programmable and smart thermostats let you set temperature schedules, so you can automatically reduce heat when you’re not home or sleeping.
2. Maintain Your Heating System
Regular maintenance keeps your heating system running smoothly and efficiently:
- Schedule Annual Check-Ups: Have your natural gas furnace serviced annually by a certified professional to ensure it operates at peak efficiency.
- Replace Filters Regularly: Dirty or clogged filters force your heating system to work harder, consuming more energy. Replace or clean filters every 1-3 months during the heating season.
- Check Vents and Ducts: Make sure vents are open and unblocked by furniture, and seal any leaks in your ducts to prevent heat loss.
3. Insulate and Seal Your Home
Proper insulation is essential for reducing heating costs and keeping warm air inside:
- Add Insulation to Your Attic and Walls: Insulation helps prevent heat from escaping, reducing the load on your heating system. A well-insulated home can save up to 15% on heating and cooling costs.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Use weather stripping and caulk to seal gaps around windows and doors where warm air might escape.
4. Use a Humidifier
Dry air can make your home feel colder, causing you to turn up the heat. Adding a humidifier to your home increases moisture in the air, making it feel warmer and more comfortable at a lower temperature setting.
5. Maximize Heat with Curtains and Blinds
Take advantage of the sun’s natural warmth to heat your home:
- Open Curtains During the Day: Let sunlight in during the day to naturally warm up your living spaces.
- Close Curtains at Night: Keep heat inside by closing curtains or blinds when the sun goes down.
6. Take Advantage of ENERGY STAR® Appliances
When it’s time to replace your heating system, look for an Natural Gas ENERGY STAR®-certified model. These systems are designed to use less energy than standard models and can save you up to 20% on heating costs.
7. Consider Zone Heating
Zone heating allows you to heat specific areas of your home rather than the entire house, which can save energy and reduce heating costs:
- Install Zone Controls: With a zoned heating system, you can set different temperatures in different parts of the home.
- Use Space Heaters Wisely: For rooms you use less frequently, a natural gas space heater can be a cost-effective alternative to turning up the central thermostat.
Why Choose Natural Gas Heating?
Natural gas heating is reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. By following these tips, you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home while saving on your heating bills.
When it’s time to upgrade your heating system, Pensacola Energy offers rebates up to $800 in rebates when you add a new natural gas heating system to your home.
Stay warm, stay efficient, and save more with natural gas heating from Pensacola Energy!