Heating your home when the temperatures drop is a necessary task. Without proper heating, your home becomes unbearably cold and uncomfortable. While some homes have central heating systems, others rely on space heaters to keep the rooms warm. No matter what kind of heater you have, you can help it work more efficiently. Here are a few things to do.
Get a Tune-Up
If you have a central heating system, have it serviced by a professional before the cold weather sets in. The tune-up ensures that your system is running correctly and at peak efficiency. The technician will clean the unit, check the fluids, and make necessary repairs.
They will also check the vents for blockages and clear them if needed. If you have any concerns, this is an excellent time to let the technician know. Check Morris Jenkins for assistance with this.
Consider a Smart Thermostat
If you don’t have a smart thermostat, now may be the time to invest in one. A smart thermostat can save you money on your energy bill by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home or asleep. Some models can even learn your preferences and make adjustments accordingly.
You’ll also set different temperature settings for rooms not in use or when you want the temperature to be lower overall. It’s a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Note that lowering the thermostat by just a few degrees can significantly impact your energy bill. For every degree you lower, you’ll save about 1-3% on your heating costs.
Insulate Your Home
One of the best ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency is to ensure it’s adequately insulated. Regularly check your insulation’s R-value to see if it’s still effective.
Check the attic, walls, and floors for any areas that need additional insulation. This is especially important in older homes. Add insulation if you can see sunlight through cracks or gaps. Not only will this keep your home warmer, but it will also reduce your energy bills.
Use Curtains or Blinds
Keeping your windows covered when it’s cold outside prevents heat from escaping. If you have huge windows or many of them, consider heavy-duty curtains or blinds to improve energy efficiency further. Alternatively, go for insulated curtains.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
Most people don’t realize that ceiling fans help heat homes. Reversing the blades’ direction pushes the risen warm air into the room. The effort significantly changes the room’s temperature and helps you feel more comfortable. Install enough ceiling fans to circulate the air throughout the home for the best results. You’ll soon realize a reduction in energy bills and longer-lasting heaters.
Address Heater Issues Quickly
Heater issues are bound to pop up from time to time, especially in older homes. Address them as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your family remains comfortable. Common issues include strange smells, banging or clicking sounds, and uneven heating. Call a professional immediately.
Also, when the unit is too old or inefficient, think of a replacement. The same goes when it’s too big or small for the space. An HVAC professional can help you select the perfect unit for your home.
Don’t Let Your Heater Run All Day
While you want to be comfortable in your home, letting your heater run all day long is a sure way to increase your energy bill and lower the lifespan. Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature and only turn it on when needed. Program a smart thermostat to turn on shortly before you arrive home, so the temperature is perfect when you walk in the door.
Simple Changes Make The Difference
Regular maintenance and simple changes significantly affect your home’s energy efficiency. Understand how your heater operates, its capacity, and how to make minor adjustments to save money and energy. Seek professional help to protect the heater from wear and tear while making your home more comfortable.
