Starting to notice a spike in your heating bill? You’re not alone, but with the chillier temperatures, that increase is expected around this time.

One of your new year’s resolutions may have been to save more money in 2011. Although the thermostat is running a little higher and longer than average, there are ways to keep your home warm – and your wallets full – with simple adjustments here and there. Check out the following tips from our expert Charlotte NC heating technicians that will help you save money.

• Change up your curtains: The curtains that “look nice” in your home may need to be replaced by the curtains that “provide comfort.” Thermal curtains, which give added insulation to a room, are made to not only warm up your home but also combat your heating bill. These curtains can fight off the cold temperatures now and give much-needed shade during the months with the hotter temperatures.
• Set your thermostat: Just because the temperatures are cooler doesn’t mean your thermostat has to reach a certain degree. A two- or three-degree difference, believe it or not, can make a major difference in what your heating bill is and what it could be. Instead of 75 degrees, drop it to 70 or 72. If you have it at 70, try setting the thermostat to 67 or 68 and put on a sweater or sweatshirt to combat the cool. Remember, you want to be comfortable, and this can be an economical answer for you.
• Do routine check-ups: Heating maintenance is so underrated that it often goes unnoticed – and untouched – in a home. In the winter months, make sure your furnace is in great shape and your furnace filters are fresh. Be on the lookout for leaks, as they can cause havoc (mold, foundation issues, etc.) all around your home. Keep your radiator and hot water heater in top shape. Little things like this will help in the long run.

Take advantage of these tips, and live life the way you planned when you first made the resolution. Let our Charlotte HVAC company help you in achieving your financial goals when it comes to your heating system and maintenance. Call us today, or contact us online for tips and information.

The end of December brings us a new year. However, the end of December also brings us closer to the deadline for claiming this years Energy Star tax credit. So now is the time to act on installing a new energy efficient furnace. Our Charlotte heating & air contractor will install your new energy efficient furnace or tankless water heater.

With every tax credit, there is a process. You must obtain a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement which can be found on the manufacturer’s website. Second, you must file a IRS Form 5695 with your 2010 taxes. Then save your receipts and manufacturer’s certification statement. The process is that simple.

For more information, visit the Energy Star FAQ page.

Some items at that may qualify include:

• Ductless Heat pump
• Conventional Gas Water Heater
• Tankless Water Heater

A Ductless heat pump is a high efficiency zone heating solution. Heat pumps are perfect for living rooms or that cold addition. Durable and energy efficient; your ductless heat pump will prove a fine choice.

A tankless water heater is an on-demand water heating solution. On top of your $1,500 maximum rebate, your energy savings will continue for years. Tankless water heaters are long-lived appliances and will pay you in the long-run.

The time to purchase a new furnace or water heater has never been better. Contact us online or call your Charlotte Heating & Air company at: 704-323-8004