Weather is warming up here in the North Fork – but you’re still going to need your heating system for a while since average temperatures in eastern Long Island can dip into the 50s well into June).

Shoulder seasons like this one can bring some unexpectedly high energy bills as chilly nights stick around in April and May. But with a little planning and some simple precautions, you can keep those bills as low as possible.

Ways To Save Energy At Home

Here are some of the best ways to save energy as we transition from heating to cooling season in the weeks ahead.

1. Manage home temperatures – Proper thermostat programming could save up to 10 percent on your home energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
2. Keep warm air flowing – Move any furniture, drapery or rugs that could block vents and radiators and prevent heat from reaching your living space.
3. Seal air leaks – Now that outdoor temps are more reasonable, caulk cracks in window frames that might have worsened over the winter. Replace any neglected weather stripping, too.
4. Add insulation – Extra insulation – especially in your attic – is almost always a worthwhile investment, since most homes (especially older ones) aren’t insulated to recommended R-values.
5. Close your fireplace damper – You wouldn’t leave your window open on a chilly day, would you? The same goes for your fireplace damper when your hearth is not in use.
6. Stay on top of air filter changes – One of your most important HVAC maintenance tasks is to replace your air filter when it’s clogged. A blocked air filter robs your furnace of efficiency by making it overwork to keep you warm: the result is higher bills and more wear and tear on your equipment.
7. Manage your hot water use – Try re-setting the thermostat on your water heater to 120°F (the factory setting is usually higher), installing low-flow showerheads and aerators, and washing clothes on the cold setting to reduce hot water use. If you’re due for a new water heater, choose a high-efficiency model.
8. Service your equipment – Get your furnace or boiler maintained by a professional and you’ll prevent it from losing about five percent efficiency every year. You’ll also avoid most repairs (about 80 percent of which are avoidable if caught early enough) and keep your warranty in force. Routine maintenance pays for itself – don’t skip it!

Stay comfortable and save money this spring with these cost-effective tips and tricks. Want another smart tip? Replace your old, inefficient boiler or furnace with a new, high-efficiency heating system from Burt’s Reliable. Contact us today to get a FREE, no-obligation estimate on boiler and furnace installations in the North Fork and East End of LI!