The daytime highs in Greer, South Carolina, are in the 50s and 60s, and the nighttime lows are in the 30s and 40s. That can mean only one thing: Winter is almost here. While you’re getting ready to put up your Christmas tree, you’re likely thinking about how to survive the holiday season and winter without accruing debt. From heating your home to purchasing gifts, the cost of enjoying the holidays can add up quickly. Here are three things you can do to save energy and money this winter:
Use the Thermostat Wisely
Do you still use a manual thermostat? If so, it’s worth upgrading your HVAC system with a programmable or smart thermostat. Doing so will take the guesswork out of your hands and allow technology to optimize your comfort. But no matter which thermostat you use, you must set it correctly to save on heating costs through the winter.
To maximize heating efficiency, set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during the daytime when you’re away. Turning your thermostat down 10 to 15 degrees below your usual setting for eight hours per day can help you save between 5 and 15 percent on heating. A programmable or smart thermostat can perform this function automatically.
Decorate With LED Lights
Instead of a filament, LED lights use light-emitting diodes to produce light. If you’re still using fluorescent incandescent lights, you’re losing out on a long list of benefits that LED lights offer. LED Christmas lights are more energy-efficient, durable and last longer. They don’t burn out, and they also don’t get hot to the touch. As a result, they’re safer.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
No family should have to spend Christmas in a cold home. To prevent your heating system from breaking down when you need it the most, it’s imperative that you schedule preventive seasonal maintenance for it. While many consider it an expense, it’s an investment that pays you back in lower heating bills and fewer repair costs.
Do you want to learn more about how to save energy and money this holiday season? Contact Authorized Heating & Air Conditioning at (864) 281-0141 for additional advice or to schedule your heating maintenance visit.
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