Winters in Jeffersonville, Kentucky, are usually chilly. The average low temperature is 22 degrees, so many within the community prefer to keep their furnaces running constantly to keep their homes and businesses warm and cozy. Still, you might ask yourself, “Is it cost effective to keep heating on low constantly?”
Our Air Support Heating and Cooling professionals understand why many keep their heat on all day. Yet, as a leading HVAC service company in Jeffersonville, KY, we also know that this kind of practice might not be as cost-effective as you think. Here’s why.
The Logic Behind On-Demand Heating With Low Settings
It’s no secret that utility bills increase during summers and winters in Jeffersonville due to people using their HVAC systems more frequently. Yet, some property owners try to save on expenses and maintain their indoor comfort by running their furnaces all day at a low temperature.
The idea behind this practice is that a furnace won’t have to work too hard and consume excess energy to heat a cold space. If the building stays warm consistently, the heating system can save energy.
Making minor temperature adjustments can save money. For instance, dropping the temperature a few degrees when the property is empty and turning it back up when everybody returns is cost-effective. So, is it cost-effective to keep the heating on low all day?
The Problem With Constant Heating in Jeffersonville, Kentucky
Despite the logic of keeping your heating system running at a low temperature 24/7, it’s not the best way to cut energy costs. This practice still results in unnecessary fuel consumption due to heat loss between indoor and outdoor temperatures, whether you use a furnace or direct heating system.
The more heat loss your home has, the more energy your furnace will consume to maintain your preferred indoor temperature. The heat loss and temperature discrepancy between indoor and outdoor spaces will increase energy costs.
How To Reduce Energy Consumption While Heating Your Jeffersonville Home or Business
Now that you know the answer to “Is it cost effective to keep heating on low all day?” what can you do to cut energy costs for your Jeffersonville property during the winter? Here are several tips.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
Operating your heating system more efficiently starts with upgrading your thermostat to a programmable model. With a programmable thermostat, you can adjust your temperature settings according to your schedule, ensuring that the space is warm when people are present without forcing the furnace to burn unnecessary fuel.
Some modern devices allow remote thermostat controls so you can make adjustments using a smartphone or tablet over a WiFi connection. Programmable thermostats offer convenience and long-term energy savings, making them a worthwhile investment for many Jeffersonville property owners.
Seal Air Drafts
Heat loss doesn’t only occur in attics and behind walls. Your building can also have air leaks in surprising areas like:
- Window frames
- Doors
- Light fixtures
- Wall switches
- Outlets
If you suspect warm air is escaping from leaks around these spaces, you can seal them using caulk or weather stripping. However, if you’re unsure if your property has air leaks or you’re having problems sealing drafts, consider hiring an energy assessor to evaluate your home.
Invest in Insulation
Your property’s insulation efficiency plays a major role in how well your furnace consumes energy and heats the building. Insulation is essential for eliminating unnecessary heat loss through walls, ceilings, and attic space.
With the right insulation, you can save on heating costs because your home or business will retain most of its warmth. That also means you won’t have to run your furnace all day.
Replace Your HVAC Air Filter
Your furnace’s air filters contribute to how much you spend on energy costs because they impact your heating system’s performance. Dirty filters restrict airflow, which can cause furnaces to overwork and overheat, resulting in excessive energy consumption. Help your furnace maintain its energy efficiency by changing the filter at least once every 90 days.
Optimize Your Furnace’s Energy Efficiency With Help From Air Support Heating and Cooling in Jeffersonville
Is it cost effective to keep heating on low all day? At Air Support Heating and Cooling, we know that constant heating will quickly decrease your furnace’s fuel efficiency and cause energy bills to spike.
Thankfully, our certified HVAC technicians serving Jeffersonville, Kentucky, have the expertise necessary to correctly optimize any heating system to improve its performance and maximize its energy efficiency. As one of the area’s top heating and cooling contractors, our crew offers everything from AC compressor replacement to seasonal furnace maintenance. Contact us today to request services and learn more!