Have you been wondering why your energy bills are higher than expected this winter? Due to the higher global prices for heating oil, natural gas and other fuels, the U.S. government expects that homeowners will see a jump of almost 54 percent compared to last winter. Homes that use electric heat pumps are also affected, though they’ll only see a modest increase of around six percent.
Besides surging oil prices, other problems can also lead to higher monthly energy bills, and they could be related to your heating system. All Seasons, Inc., your top choice among local heating and air conditioning companies, shares some of the most common causes here:
Leaking ductwork. Leaks are fairly visible, as they generally leave water stains on walls and ceilings. Since they’re easy to spot, in most cases they can be addressed almost immediately. But some are harder to spot than others, as they can affect areas that aren’t often seen. Leaking ductwork can not only cause a spike in energy bills, but also moisture damage, as well as mold and mildew growth. The best way to fix this problem is to have your system and ductwork inspected by a professional technician. They’ll know how to fully diagnose your home heating system and make the repairs necessary to prevent wasted energy consumption.
Inefficient heating system. A well-maintained furnace should last 20 to 25 years. If you use a furnace to heat your home during the winter season and notice that it isn’t heating your home as effectively as it should, you might want to have it checked by a trusted professional. Most furnace companies agree that as a unit ages over time, its efficiency will slowly decrease.
If your furnace is already near the end of its lifespan, consider getting a replacement as soon as possible. While the upfront cost may be high, it’s worth the investment if it means lower monthly energy bills. For instance, if you replace your aging furnace that has barely 80 percent efficiency with one that’s around 95 percent efficient, you’ll see up to 15 percent energy savings each month!
As a local specialist among HVAC and electric panel companies, don’t hesitate to call in All Seasons, Inc. to do the job. Call us today at (253) 879-9144, or fill out our online contact form! We serve residents in Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and surrounding areas in WA.