San Diego Winter Tips

Keep the Heat! 

High heating bills often cause homeowners to sacrifice their comfort for a little extra cash—but it doesn't have to be that way. Here are some tips for saving money while staying warm this winter:

Storm windows are about $100 each and reduce heat loss by 25% or more—much cheaper than window replacments and the payback time will be in 2 to 5 years.

Attics are about $300 for added insulation, save 40% on energy bills and the payback time will be in 3 to 5 years.

Chimneys are free and such tightly closed dampers prevent up to 8% of furnance-heated air from going up the chimney. The payback time is immediate!

Air leaks cost between $30-$50 for the materials and save 10% or more ($50 to $170 per year) on heating bills. The payback time will be in 6 months to a year.

Energy Star appliances such as fridges ($399), washers ($600) and dishwashers ($230) can save $80 on the fridges, $110 on washers and $30 on dishwashers annually. The payback time will be in 5 years for fridgesm 7 to 8 years for washers and 8 years for dishwashers.

Water heaters are about $750 to install and can save up to $20 on heating hills. Payback time will be in 3 to 4 years.

Heating systems are $75-$100 for a tune-up and save more than 10% on heating bills and up to 10% on ductwork. Payback time will be in 1 heating season.

Furnaces are $2,000-$3,000 and save more energy costs while enjoying a quieter, more comfortable home. Payback time will be in 2 to 5 years.