Natural gas prices have skyrocketed over the past few years. But saving on natural gas bills doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. With a few smart tweaks, you can cut down on the gas usage and save money. Let’s take a closer look:
Change Your Thermostat Settings
Did you know that turning down your thermostat even one degree below 70°F can shave 1-3% off your annual gas usage? Aim for 68°F and you can cut down nearly 6% on your heating costs.
Moreover, avoid turning the heat off while you’re away. It takes more energy and resources to bring your home to a comfortable temperature. Experts recommend keeping the thermostat at 60°F while you’re away. A programmable or smart thermostat can also help your natural gas bill.
Switch to High-Efficiency Appliances
Switching to energy-efficiency appliances is another great way to save on natural gas bills. Whenever possible, upgrade your water heater, furnace, or stove with a newer, energy-efficient model.
Energy-efficient appliances may cost more upfront, but they can save you money in the long run. Moreover, many utility companies and government programs offer rebates and incentives to help encourage the usage of energy-efficient natural gas appliances. A gas rebate will cover part of the total cost, so you can keep more money in your pocket.
Lower the Water Heater Temperature
Most water heaters are set way higher (typically 140°F) than needed. Homeowners keep running them on the default temperature without realizing how it might impact their natural gas bills.
Simply lowering your water heater temperature to 120°F can save you up to 10% on your water heating costs. This can be a huge relief, especially when you’re paying hundreds of dollars in natural gas bills every month. The best part is you won’t even notice the difference in the water temperature.
Seal Air Leaks
So you’re good at home improvement projects. How about putting those skills to lowering natural gas bills? Sealing air leaks around the doors and windows can lead to noticeable savings.
Air leaks lead to a significant portion of energy loss in homes. They make your heaters work overtime, leading to unbelievably high gas bills. Here are some common signs of air leaks:
- Drafts around the doors and windows
- Higher-than-normal energy bills
- Gaps in the exterior
- Excessive dust on the walls
Here are some inexpensive ways to seal leaks:
- Use weatherstripping for doors and windows
- Apply caulk to cracks and gaps in baseboards and around frames
- Use foam sealant for larger gaps, like around pipes or vents
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors
Insulate Your Attic
In addition to air sealing, insulating your attic can cut down natural gas bills. When there is not enough insulation, warm air rises, making your heating system work twice as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Start by checking the insulation level of your attic, aiming for 10-14 inches of thickness. You can choose between fiberglass, cellulose, or spray foam insulation to fill the gaps.