As the cold of winter sets in here in Schererville and the surrounding Indiana area, keeping your home warm and comfortable is a top priority. But with those chilly temperatures comes the reality of higher energy bills. At Siemer Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we want to help you stay cozy without breaking the bank.
With over 30 years of serving our community as a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, we know a thing or two about heating efficiency. Our NATE-certified technicians are ready to help with everything from professional energy audits to servicing your HVAC system for peak winter performance.
Here’s our comprehensive guide packed with actionable advice and smart upgrades to lower your heating bills this winter.
Start with a Professional Home Energy Audit
A home energy audit is the best place to start your savings journey. Our experts assess your entire home’s energy usage, spotlighting leaks, insulation gaps, or outdated equipment draining your budget. Plus, going through an audit can unlock rebate programs that make improvements more affordable.
Thermostat Management for Maximum Savings
Adjust your thermostat for efficiency: aim for about 68°F when you’re home and lower it 7 to 10 degrees when you’re asleep or away. Installing a programmable or smart thermostat ensures your heating adjusts automatically, so you don’t waste energy heating an empty house. Zoned heating can further boost comfort and savings by warming only occupied rooms.
Use Sunlight and Window Efficiency to Your Advantage
Open curtains on sunny days to harness free solar heat, then close insulated curtains at night to trap warmth inside. If your windows are older or drafty, consider storm windows or window insulation kits to dramatically cut down heat loss.
Seal Air Leaks and Enhance Insulation
Heat can escape through tiny cracks around doors, windows, and plumbing. We recommend sealing these leaks with weather stripping or caulk and adding draft stoppers to frequently used entrances. Proper insulation in attics, crawl spaces, and walls is crucial — it’s like giving your home a warm winter coat.
Keep Your HVAC System in Top Shape
Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of your heated air. Our duct sealing service ensures warm air goes where it’s supposed to. Regular maintenance by our certified technicians keeps your furnace running efficiently, and changing filters every 90 days is a simple habit that pays off. When it’s time, upgrading to a high-efficiency or heat pump system can mean big savings.
Learn more about furnace tune-ups at Siemer.
Be Smart About Water Heating
Lower the temperature on your water heater to 120°F and fix leaks promptly. Shorter, cooler showers and water-saving fixtures reduce the energy needed to heat water. If you’re considering replacements, tankless or heat pump water heaters are energy savers.
Learn more about water heater services at Siemer.
Supplemental Heating and Lifestyle Tips
Use space heaters or fireplaces to warm occupied rooms without heating your entire home. Dressing warmly inside with layered clothing means you can comfortably set the thermostat a few degrees lower. Remember to close doors to unused rooms to keep warmth where you need it.
Long-Term Upgrades and Incentives
Consider investing in ENERGY STAR-certified appliances, smart home technology, or renewable heating solutions like solar panels. Many upgrades qualify for federal tax credits and rebates that ease the upfront cost. Our team can help you evaluate options that balance comfort, cost, and savings.
Contact a Professional for More Tips or a Professional Inspection
At Siemer Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’re dedicated to helping you reduce energy waste and lower your heating bills without sacrificing comfort. Contact us today for a professional energy audit or HVAC service so you can enjoy a warm, efficient winter season. Call us or request service online to schedule your appointment.
