How Can I Lower My Heating Bills?

As the days grow shorter and the outdoor temperature starts to drop in Washington, many homeowners are dreading the thought of high heating bills.

But there are effective ways to keep your Tacoma home warm and cozy without breaking the bank.

At Resicon LLC, we are committed to helping our customers achieve optimal comfort and energy efficiency. Our team of experts has compiled a list of practical tips that can help you significantly reduce your heating costs this winter.

5 Ways to Slash Your Heating Costs

Here are some actions our professionals recommend taking when you want to reduce your heating expenses:

1. Add insulation to your attic and walls.

Proper insulation helps to keep the heat inside your home during the winter and outside your home during the summer. If your attic and walls are poorly insulated, you could be losing a significant amount of energy.

Adding insulation can be a worthwhile investment that pays off in lower heating bills.

Why it works: Adding insulation to your attic and walls can reduce energy loss by up to 50 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This can lead to significant savings on your heating and cooling bills year-round.

2. Seal air leaks and gaps.

Air leaks can allow a significant amount of energy to escape, driving up your heating costs. Take some time to seal any air leaks around windows, doors, vents, and ductwork. You can use caulk, weather stripping, or foam sealant to create a tighter seal.

Why it works: Sealing air leaks can reduce energy loss by up to 20 percent, according to ENERGY STAR^®. This can lead to significant savings on your heating bills, especially in older homes.

3. Schedule your annual heating maintenance visit.

Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring that your heating system operates at peak efficiency. A well-maintained furnace or heat pump can perform its job without overworking, which saves energy and money.

Why it works: A clean and well-maintained heating system can operate up to 30 percent more efficiently than one that is neglected. According to ENERGY STAR, regular maintenance can also prevent costly breakdowns by up to 95 percent.

4. Adjust your thermostat and upgrade to a programmable or smart model.

Lower the thermostat when you are out for the day and during the night while you sleep. Even a few degrees can lead to significant savings over the season.

Programmable and smart thermostats take thermostat adjustments to the next level—they do the work for you. These devices allow you to create customized heating schedules that align with your daily routine. They can even learn your habits and make automatic adjustments, ensuring that you only use energy when needed.

Why it works: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) suggests that adjusting temperatures 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 hours a day can save you up to 10 percent annually on heating bills.

ENERGY STAR-certified smart thermostats have been shown to save an average of $50 annually on energy bills. Plus, they can be controlled remotely, making temperature adjustments a breeze even when you are away from home.

5. Upgrade to High-Efficiency Heating Equipment:

If your furnace or heat pump is 10 years or older, it may not be as efficient as the newer models available today. Consider investing in a high-efficiency unit—especially if your system breaks down often or is at the end of its useful service life—to enjoy more warmth for less money.

Why it works: High-efficiency units use less energy to produce the same amount of heat. ENERGY STAR reports that newer, ENERGY STAR-certified heating systems can cut energy costs by up to 20 percent.

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA_ provides tax credits and rebates to encourage homeowners to replace older appliances with newer, high-efficiency models. Take advantage of these tax credits so you can recoup some of the cost and enjoy all the benefits of new equipment!

Reduce Your Heating Bills and Improve Your Comfort Today

Ready to start reducing your Tacoma, WA, home’s heating costs this winter? Contact our experts at Resicon LLC. We can help you achieve optimal comfort and energy efficiency at home. Call 253-625-7952 or request service online.