Home expert helps consumers with DIY tips in the midst of rising inflation
Foster City, CA – December 1, 2021 – Winter months account for about 50 to 80% of residential fuel consumption in the United States. With energy costs rising, consumers are seeking ways to save on heating bills this winter. A recent Modernize Home Services homeowner survey reveals that 37% of homeowners are pursuing home improvement projects to save money on monthly utility and electric bills. There are actions homeowners and renters can take to help reduce their utility bills this winter. The home services industry leader suggests these home winterization tips to help consumers save this season.
Check the HVAC System
- Call a professional to inspect and clean your home’s heating system. It accounts for up to 40% of a homeowner’s energy use, so a faulty HVAC system can result in consistently higher energy bills.
- Make sure the air ducts are well-sealed and insulated. Leaks can reduce a home’s energy efficiency by about 20%.
- Consider replacing HVAC units that are 10+ years old. Repairs on older systems can cost more than half of the unit. New energy-efficient heat pumps can save homeowners up to 20% on energy bills.
- Ask about any available HVAC project incentives. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency provides information regarding rebates and credits. Local utility companies may offer incentives for energy-efficient units.
“If certain areas of the home are too hot or too cold, it can be a sign of faulty or failing equipment,” says Gregg Hicks, vice president of Modernize.com. “This issue can also be caused by duct or insulation problems, so watch out for strange smells, noises, dust, or humidity. These are signs the HVAC system needs to be inspected and potentially replaced.”
DIY Tips for Winter Savings
- Check or Add Insulation - Repairing or adding insulation to the attic or crawl space is one of the most cost-effective home improvements for energy efficiency. Bonus: An Energy Star tax credit of 10% of the cost (up to $500) may apply.
- Lower the Water Temperature - Many experts recommend 140 degrees Fahrenheit as the standard for water temperature for your hot water heater; however, lowering it to 120 degrees still provides plenty of hot water for showers and washing dishes. This can help save up to 22 percent on energy bills.
- Change the HVAC Air Filter - Modernize recommends inspecting and switching out the filter once every three months. This can help with optimal energy efficiency, as well as remove dust, dirt, and allergens.
- Swap Screens for Storm Windows - Doing so creates better insulation and added warmth. Homeowners should also check all the window and doorframes for gaps and fill with caulk or weather stripping to prevent heat loss.
- Switch the Ceiling Fans Rotation - Change the rotation of any ceiling fans to clockwise. This produces a gentle updraft to force warm air down and help reduce utility bills.
- Change the Curtains - Investing in heavier curtains can help keep heat inside the home - and the cold out.
Modernize Home Services offers a free energy-savings guide for homeowners to help make homes energy efficient year-round. “Budgets are tight right now, but homeowners may be able to reduce their utility bills with a little proactive maintenance. They can also ask their energy supplier about budget billing options, or contact their state agencies to see what types of financial aid are available,” advises Hicks.
Hicks is a home improvement expert with more than 20 years of experience in the industry with knowledge on a wide range of home services trades including HVAC, window replacement, roofing, solar power, kitchen and bath remodeling, siding, flooring and more.
About Modernize Home Services
For more than 15 years, Modernize Home Services has been a leader in the home improvement and services industry, connecting homeowners with contractors and other home services professionals. Modernize.com operates in more than 15 high-value, high-consideration home segments, including new and replacement windows, solar installation, roofing, heating and air conditioning, siding, bathrooms and kitchens, new and replacement gutters, home security, and others. The business brings a network of more than 1,000 contractors and professionals across all segments, offering broad geographical coverage and choice for homeowners.
Modernize Home Services is owned and operated by QuinStreet, Inc. (Nasdaq:QNST), a leader in providing performance marketplace technologies and services to the financial services and home services industries. QuinStreet is a pioneer in delivering online marketplace solutions to match searchers with brands in digital media. The company is committed to providing consumers with the information and tools they need to research, find and select the products and brands that meet their needs. Modernize.com is a member of QuinStreet’s expert research and publishing division.
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