Improve Energy Efficiency at Your Michigan Home

Take Stock Now, Make Changes Before Next Winter

These days, just about everyone is looking for ways to lower their annual energy costs. Some ways are simple and easy to do on your own. While the savings you’ll eventually see can be small and may seem insignificant, if you make enough of them, they may add up to a surprising amount.

Other changes you make in your Michigan home can mean more work or require an investment, but this can lead to big, impressive returns. These changes include installing a new high-efficiency heating oil system. Let’s start with these six ideas*:

1. Save an average of 15% on annual heating and cooling costs by sealing up all air leaks and adding insulation to your attic and the floors above crawl spaces.
2. Use smart programmable thermostats and save an average of 8% on your annual heating and cooling expenses.
3. Check your air filters regularly if you have a forced-air system. Clean or change them when needed. Clogged filters rob your furnace of efficiency by making it overwork to keep you warm. The same principle applies if you have a central air conditioning system in your home.
4. Keep the lint trap in your dryer clean. Check it whenever you toss in a load of clothes. A dirty lint trap makes your dryer run longer and can become a safety hazard. This simple task can save you about $35 each year.
5. Conserve energy on electronics by using a power strip as a central “turn off” point when you’re done. This helps eliminate standby power consumption. The average household could save $100–$200 each year by doing this.
6. Use curtains and shades strategically: In winter, keep them open during the day to absorb solar heat, then close them at night to retain warmth. In summer, close them during the day to block heat. Smart window treatments can help manage solar energy year-round.

Don’t Forget about Heating System Maintenance

Regular maintenance is a vital money-saving investment for your heating oil boiler or furnace because it keeps your equipment running safely and at peak efficiency. Four out of five heating system breakdowns are preventable if you follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.

Heating system tune-ups can also help you conserve heating oil over the winter. Your professional heating oil technician will conduct a series of tests to ensure your system is running at optimal efficiency. Any necessary adjustments or repairs can be taken care of after the evaluation. It’s always best to consult your heating oil service company to find out when your furnace or boiler is due for tune-up service.

Heating Oil Equipment Replacement

If you have an old heating oil system that’s been prone to repairs in the past few years, a replacement system may be a better option than continued maintenance. Like any piece of equipment, your heating oil boiler or furnace will eventually need to be replaced.

The latest heating oil boilers and furnaces are small, smart, and super-efficient and can save you 20% or more on your annual heating costs. There are multiple equipment options available to fit your budget.

If you’re ready to explore new heating system options for your home, reach out to your Michigan heating oil company for advice.

*Sources: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.