Heat loss through the windows
Single pane windows cost homeowners the most energy. These windows average $800 to $875 a year in energy costs. Upgrading to dual pane units or windows with Low-E coatings can reduce these figures to lower than $600 annually. In a few short years, these windows can pay for themselves when shoppers are savvy looking for discounts and rebates from the government.
The air conditioning and the furnace fight each other
When you have problems with your HVAC unit, sometimes the only way to get the energy costs down is by hiring someone who specializes in air conditioner repair or furnace tune-ups. These systems must operate in efficient states to keep costs low. Without regular checkups and maintenance, large house systems can increase utility costs exponentially.
Sometimes, winter weather is not predictable. It may be 80 degrees one week and freezing temperatures the next. If you have to keep switching between the furnace and the air conditioner, then these units can cost a lot of money when you run both in the same month.
Leaving doors open too long
When the weather is not too cold, we often open the doors when watching for guests to arrive or to bring in the groceries. These little moments may not seem like much, but they can let a lot of heat out the door.
Then, the furnace has to kick on more often to keep the temperature even. Closing the door behind you every time you go in or out can be a pain, but it will save money in the long run.
Using a water heater that is too small for the home
If you have three or four people in your home, then a 40 to 60-gallon water heater is appropriate. Anything smaller, and the system will be running constantly. Keeping the water in the tank warm means the system must constantly work to keep up with the demand. When you do a lot of dishes or laundry, then the energy costs increase.
To minimize the energy leakage from your home during the coldest months, it is important to button up your house and maintain your major home systems. Efficient machinery costs much less to operate than equipment that is outdated or working too hard.
Insulating the windows and doors and using a Smart thermostat are other ways you can reduce the expense of maintaining your home in the winter.
