Cold weather has a way of sneaking up in Colorado. One day it’s 90 degrees and the next it struggles to get out of the 50s. Can frost and snow be far behind?
If you haven’t done it already, it’s time to take a look at how prepared you are for our predictably unpredictable cold snaps.
Beat the Rush. Get Your Furnace Inspected Now
Lots of people (lots) wait until temperatures drop to schedule a furnace inspection. By then, HVAC companies are swamped, with appointments extending for weeks or more. Jump the line by scheduling an appointment at the earliest date available. Even if you don’t need heat now, you will soon enough and furnaces and boilers, especially older ones, can develop issues even when idle.
Be Ready for Rising Rates
Both natural gas and electricity rates have been skyrocketing and it’s not likely to ease up soon. Utilities like Xcel Energy, Colorado’s largest energy provider, keep asking for rate increases as both government and corporate decisions push gas and electric costs higher.
You can lessen the pain by making your home as energy efficient as possible. Things like weatherstripping, added insulation, low-E windows and doors, and programmable thermostats can make a big difference in your energy consumption—year-round.
Look at Cost-Saving Options
There are plenty of ways to cut down on heating costs. Besides the energy-saving tips above, technology offers options, too. They range from a few dollars to thousands so look at the cost-benefit analysis before rushing out to buy the latest gizmo.
One of the lowest cost options is a “smart” thermostat. The units range from $50 to several hundred depending on features and installation costs. Most utility companies offer steep discounts on smart thermostats but be careful what you sign up for. Controlling your temperature from your phone may be nice but turning control over to the utility company may not be your idea of a good thing. Just ask 22,000 Xcel customers who had their A/C turned up during a hot spell this August.
A ceiling fan can be surprisingly effective in keeping costs down—year-round. And space heaters, used properly, can save heating costs, too.
Long-Term Solutions
Some heating/cooling options require a considerable investment, so should be looked at carefully before taking the plunge.
Mini-split systems are big savers over the long term but make the most economic sense when it’s time to replace a furnace or air conditioning system. The cost can run well in the thousands for a larger home.
The same is true for heat pump systems. Again, they both heat and cool and, again, make most sense when replacing a worn-out HVAC unit.
Big tax and rebate programs are included in the climate legislation recently passed at both the state and federal levels (it’s called the Inflation Reduction Act by the feds. Go figure.) The bennies kick in after the first of 2023 so plan accordingly.
Have Questions? Call Allstar
If you're thinking about investing in energy-saving products from smart thermostats and ceiling fans to mini-splits and heat pumps—or have any problems or concerns about your electrical service—the pros at Allstar Electrical Services are ready to help. Allstar Electrical Services is committed to helping you enjoy your home at the lowest possible energy cost. Our extensive residential services are there to help you reach that goal. Visit our website to learn more. Then email us or give us a call at 303.399.7420 to schedule an appointment. We offer homeowners, builders, and businesses reliable, professional electrical work that is safe and up to code.
We've served the Front Range for over 20 years, are top-rated by the BBB, and are proud to be a preferred contractor on Angi’s Home Advisor.