With everyone still in the throes of winter, and six more weeks predicted, you might be wondering how you can save energy for the rest of the cold months ahead. If you’re like most homeowners, you probably noticed a spike in your last heating bill, and although it can be expected, it certainly isn’t welcome! Most Northern Virginia residents begin to question how they can save energy and money when they start to feel the hammer coming down on their wallets. Many of you have heard that turning your thermostat down can save energy…although there has also been a rumor that it actually uses more energy because you end up supplementing with space heaters and your gas fireplace to keep warm. Well, we’re here to set the record straight!

Turning Down The Thermostat:

Here are the cold, hard facts. If you choose to keep your thermostat at 68 degrees during the day and just about 62 degrees in the evening, you can give your heating system a break AND save up to 50% of your monthly utility bill.

Although this might sound like a bad solution for those of us who are continuously cold, even with the heat blasting, we’ve got a couple of reasons why you should consider keeping your thermostat on these average levels.

1. You’ll save money

Sure, maybe when you’re toes feel chilly, you won’t feel as though the money is important, but grab another blanket because you’ll be sighing with relief when your next utility bill comes in and you notice a real difference in the amount of spend on the total!

2. Gas is more expensive than electricity…use the fireplace

Although this one is a little tricky because it’s STILL using funds, electricity is less expensive than gas. So if you’re watching a movie in your living room and you want to flip on your gas fireplace, go ahead, it won’t cost as much money as heating your entire home at 72 degrees!

3. 68 degrees is a healthy temperature for your body

Let’s take health into consideration. Some say that overheating your body is actually damaging to it. Of course, being in considerably cold conditions isn’t healthy either, but 68 degrees can actually help keep your body regulated. Resist the urge to turn up the heat the moment you walk in from the 30-degree weather. Let your body adjust to the heat inside your home, soon it’ll feel comfortable. And for those of you who just can’t get warm, pile on the sweaters, socks, and blankets and think of summer because, let’s face it, those of us who struggle with that “always cold” feeling can never quite warm up!

As always, if your heating system doesn’t seem to be working at the level that you feel it should, it may be time to have a professional take a look at it! We’re always here for service, tips and advice, so give us a call today!