It is no secret that energy bills are increasing steadily. Many factors contribute to this rise in prices, but it all comes down to one main culprit: soaring natural gas prices.
Unfortunately, as a homeowner or business owner, you can’t control this national problem. However, there are tactical ways to reduce the impact. Read on to learn more about why your energy bills are rising this winter, and what you can do to counteract it.
Why are prices rising?
Natural gas is a dominant source of fuel in the United States, and prices are rising. The average household will spend 28% more this year to heat a home with gas compared to last winter, according to the US Energy Information Administration. But it doesn’t stop there.
All across the state of Florida, residents and business owners are reporting large shifts in average monthly energy prices. In Jacksonville, JEA warns customers to expect these increases, according to The Florida-Times Union. In Gainesville, many fret over the effect these high bills will have on their homes and businesses.
What can contribute to rising energy bills?
While the cost of natural gas may not be within your control, there are practical ways to reduce your energy bills, despite inconsistent Florida temperatures.
Swimming Pools
Many Florida residents have swimming pools, which can be a sweet reprieve in summer. However, running your pool pump for 24 hours every day during winter might not be necessary. Pool technicians might advise against turning off your pump completely during the winter for many reasons, so a simple solution would be to only run your pool pump for a few hours a day.
Window and Door Leaks
If your windows and doors are not sealed properly, you will feel cold drafts creeping in from even the smallest cracks and broken sealant. This will cause your heating system to work even harder to combat outdoor temperatures.
To prevent the warm air from escaping, check out this tutorial on how to weather strip your windows.
Pet Doors
This one may be obvious, but similar to leaky windows and doors, pet doors contribute to a large amount of energy loss. If having a pet door is essential in your home, make sure it is properly sealed. Also, ensure the door flap fits snugly into the pet door frame to limit air escape when the flap is closed.
Avoid Big Swings in Temperature
Cranking your thermostat to demand large changes in temperature will surely send your energy bill soaring. The colder it is outside, the harder your furnace will work to heat your home. If you are trying to heat your home, let the sun filter in during the day, close the curtains to retain heat at night, and throw on a few more layers of clothes.
Check Your Furnace
If you have an older furnace, it may not be as energy efficient as new ones. However, checking the health of your furnace – new or old – is a good practice to ensure your furnace is running as efficiently as possible. Schedule a tune-up with our professionals at Comfort Temp.
Contact the Professional HVAC Technicians at Comfort Temp to Bring Your Furnace Up to Code
Many of these heating and energy assessments can be addressed by the professionals at Comfort Temp. Ask a professional during the next visit to help identify energy saving tips specific to your home. Your comfort is our priority. Call Comfort Temp today for residential or commercial needs, and don’t forget about our 24/7 emergency service!
