JACKSONVILLE Blog

Get Ahead of Jacksonville’s High Utility Prices With Insulation Saving

According to local Jacksonville news, residents can expect to pay “significantly” more this winter, a warning that comes directly from the U.S. Department of Energy. Fuel costs, retail prices, and energy costs are increasing this season and, along with the expected significant decrease in temperature this year, households are going to be using more heat than the past few years. According to CBS news, natural gas users can expect to pay upwards of 30% more this winter, a 30% increase from last year’s cost estimates.

The best way to prepare for price increases is through thorough preparation. While that doesn't mean stockpiling on soup, water, and toilet paper, it does mean ensuring your home is ready for the upcoming cold. If you've already started to notice an increase in your regular utility bills, it could be an early sign that your household is in need of an evaluation and updated insulation and air sealing. Without it, the 30% increase in bills could be significantly higher for your household.

Higher Utility Bills this Winter

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the winter fuels outlook for the season of 2021-2022 is expected to be "at or near multi-year highs" in regards to energy prices. While this is due to global market trends, the COVID-19 pandemic, and natural weather shifts leading to a colder year, the reasons don't necessarily help out local households and families. With an increase in prices parallel to the increase in the need for heat, local utility bills are going to see a significant surge in the next few months and possibly even in upcoming years.

However, when it comes to staying ahead of these price increases, it’s important to remember that savings are about more than monetary value. When scheduling a free evaluation from local experts like Koala Insulation of Jacksonville, you’re not only working toward saving on energy costs in the long run, but you're also preparing your house to handle the winter chill. This will keep your home efficiently regulated throughout the season, requiring less heat and maintaining the desired temperature for longer. Read further in our recent article on insulation’s return on investment to learn more about how new material can save your household in maintenance fees, monthly costs, and more.

Reducing Rates with Insulation

Insulation material works to reduce the rate of heat transfer. This is how easily heat can enter or exit your building envelope, allowing unwanted heat to enter in the summer and desired heat to escape in the winter. While the material typically suffers from the “out of sight, out of mind” treatment from many homeowners, it plays a crucial role in keeping your household safe and comfortable throughout the winter.

Temperature Regulation

Insulation regulates temperature by slowing the rate of heat transfer, helping to keep each room at the desired temperature for longer. When insulation is improperly installed or poorly covered, heat is able to move through the building, floors, and walls easily, which is why one side of the house may feel cooler than the other or why the HVAC has to run for longer periods of time to keep up with the thermostat. With winter coming up soon, it's important to get the new material updated during the fall so your home is adequately prepared to keep in the heat.

Energy Savings

By removing old and degraded insulation and replacing it with newer material, you're putting less strain on your HVAC system, allowing it to run less and use less energy. Additionally, many insulation types are made out of recycled materials; developments in the industry have also increased the reusability of older materials, meaning retrofitting insulation can turn the home renovation project into an environmentally friendly clean-up.

Fall Weather

Fall is one of the best times to schedule an insulation evaluation. Cool weather, dry air, and winter preparation are the main reasons to insulate during the fall. But this isn't just for the benefit of your local insulation contractor. It's also the ideal season for the homemade handyman, for those that need a quick DIY change or are looking to do their own quick evaluation.

Saving with Koala Insulation of Jacksonville

Ensuring your home is properly insulated can help you get on the path to a safer, more comfortable, and energy-efficient structure. However, especially if you’re a first-time homeowner or you’ve just moved into a new area, you should first make sure that the insulation in the house is working properly. Having the best local insulation contractors can help you identify the various factors that can affect your home’s energy efficiency.

Your local insulation experts at Koala Insulation of Jacksonville are here to help bring you and your household closer to a cost-effective and energy-saving home. With prices rising this season, it’s crucial to start saving where you can without cutting back on important household needs. Not only does our team understand the importance of finding the right product for a great price, but we’re also dedicated to a timely evaluation and installation that doesn’t put your schedule out of sorts. Contact our team today for a free evaluation and estimate to solve your insulation needs.