December 13, 2024

If your heating bills are through the roof this winter, you’re not alone. As temperatures drop, it’s normal to see an uptick in energy costs. But if your bills seem unusually high, there’s likely a reason. The good news? Many common issues can be fixed, and doing so could save you a bundle.

At Heat Wiser, we’ve spent over 18 years helping homeowners in the Central New York area stay cozy without breaking the bank. Let’s explore the top reasons for high heating bills– and what you can do to lower them! 

1. Your Home Might Be Leaking Heat

Heat has a way of sneaking out through gaps, cracks, and poorly insulated areas in your home. When this happens, your heating system has to work overtime to keep your home warm, which drives up your energy costs.

What You Can Do:

  • Seal Drafty Areas: Walk through your home and check for drafts near windows and doors. Weatherstripping and caulk are affordable fixes that can block cold air and keep warm air inside.
  • Upgrade Your Insulation: Heat rises, making your attic one of the biggest culprits for heat loss. Consider upgrading attic and wall insulation if it’s thin or outdated.
  • Use Heavy Curtains: Thermal or insulated curtains help keep heat inside, especially at night. During the day, open them to let sunlight naturally warm your space.

Tackling these small changes now can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bill all winter long!

2. Thermostat Troubles

Your thermostat is the brain of your heating system, and how you use it can have a big impact on your energy bill. Constantly adjusting the temperature or setting it too high can lead to unnecessary energy use.

Tips for Smarter Thermostat Use:

  • Set It and Forget It: A programmable or smart thermostat automatically lowers the temperature when you’re asleep or away, so you’re not heating an empty house.
  • Stay Comfortable Without Overdoing It: Setting your thermostat to 68°F during the day and dropping it by 7-10°F at night or when you’re away is a simple way to save.
  • Don’t Overcompensate: Cranking your thermostat to a high temperature doesn’t heat your home faster. Instead, it puts extra strain on your system. Be patient– it will warm up!

3. Dirty Filters and Blocked Airflow

Your furnace works hard to heat your home, but a clogged filter or blocked airflow can make that job much harder. This not only increases energy use but can also lead to costly repairs over time.

Signs You’ve Got an Issue:

  • Uneven heating in your home.
  • A furnace that runs constantly but doesn’t heat efficiently.
  • Increased dust or noticeable drops in air quality.

What to Do:

  • Change Your Filters: Replace dirty filters every 1-3 months, especially during heavy-use seasons. This is a simple, inexpensive way to improve efficiency.
  • Keep Vents Clear: Make sure vents and registers are free of obstructions like furniture or rugs.
  • Get a Pro to Check Airflow: Sometimes, airflow issues are more complex. A dirty air conditioner coil or debris in your furnace can cause overheating, humidity problems, or even water leaks. A professional inspection ensures everything runs smoothly.

4. Your System Might Need a Little TLC

Even the best hating systems need routine care to stay in top shape. Without regular maintenance, your system may struggle to keep up, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns.

Signs It’s Time for Maintenance or Repairs:

  • Strange noises like banging, rattling, or squealing.
  • Rising energy bills despite normal usage.
  • Uneven temperatures or slow heating.

How We Can Help:

At Heat Wiser, we make furnace maintenance simple and affordable. Our $99 seasonal tune-up includes:

  • Cleaning critical components to keep your system running smoothly.
  • Inspecting for potential problems before they become expensive repairs.
  • Fine-tuning your furnace for maximum efficiency.

Think of it as a spa day for your HVAC system– it’ll run better, last longer, and save you money.

5. It Could Be Time for an Upgrade

If your furnace is over 15 years old, it could be time to think about a replacement. Older systems are less efficient, leading to higher energy bills and more frequent repairs. A newer model can make a big difference in both comfort and cost savings.

Why Consider an Upgrade?

  • Save on Energy Bills: Modern heating systems use less energy to deliver the same (or better!) performance.
  • Fewer Repairs: If your furnace is constantly breaking down, a new model can eliminate that stress.
  • Peace of Mind: Avoid the risk of a breakdown on a freezing winter night with a reliable new system.

What We Offer:

  • Free Estimates: We’ll evaluate your current system and provide a no-obligation estimate for a replacement.
  • $500 Off New Furnace or A/C Systems: Let us help make your upgrade more affordable.
  • Rebates and Incentives: We’ll guide you through available rebates to maximize your savings.

Why Choose Heat Wiser?

When it comes to keeping your home warm and your bills low, Heat Wiser has you covered. Here’s why homeowners in Central New York trust us:

  • Honest Advice: No upsells or gimmicks– just straightforward recommendations tailored to your needs.
  • Experienced Professionals: With over 25 years of experience, our team knows how to keep your system running its best.
  • Comprehensive Services: From quick repairs to full system replacements, we’re your one-stop shop for heating and cooling.
  • 24/7 Emergency Help: Heating emergencies don’t wait, and neither do we.

We’re Local and Ready to Help

Heat Wiser proudly serves Syracuse, Cicero, Manlius, Baldwinsville, and other communities in CNY. Whether your heating bills are unusually high or you just want to ensure your system is ready for winter, we’re here for you.

Contact us today to schedule a tune-up, repair, or free estimate. Stay warm, save money, and trust Heat Wiser for all your HVAC needs!