1. Change your heater’s air filter regularly.
Dust-clogged air filters block airflow into your heating system, which forces it to work longer and harder to reach your preferred temperature. We recommend stocking up on air filters so that you can change the filter every 45 to 60 days if needed.
2. Prepare your heater for heavy use.
Over time, your heater’s components need to be tightened, lubricated, and cleared of the dust and grime that accumulates inside. Schedule a preventative maintenance appointment for your system to ensure that it’s prepared to operate efficiently and safely through the cold months ahead.
3. Install or repair the weatherstripping on your doors.
Your home can lose heat through the gaps between your exterior doors and their frames. Weatherstripping is a relatively easy material to buy and install on your own. The best part–it doesn’t just keep out cold drafts but bugs as well!
4. Leave your sun-facing windows open during the day.
Take advantage of direct sunlight streaming through your south-facing windows–it will turn into heat inside your home. However, once the sunlight is gone, close the curtains and blinds to help your home retain heat.
5. Install window treatments that reduce heat loss.
Some curtains and blinds are much more effective than others at keeping out the cold. You can help keep the warmth inside your home by installing energy-efficient window treatments like thermal curtains, Roman blinds, and insulated cellular shades. These treatments are also excellent for reducing the amount of heat your home will gain from sunlight during the summer.
6. When not at home, let your heater run every so often.
Though it might seem counterintuitive, you should let your heater come on periodically, even if you’ll be away from home. This will minimize the temperature fluctuations that your heater has to overcome, which, in turn, reduces the amount of energy it needs to keep your home comfortable.
7. After baking, leave your oven door open.
As long as no children or pets will be in danger, leave your oven open after you’ve finished baking. All of that warmth inside will waft out into your kitchen and nearby areas. Why not take advantage of the heat you already used energy to generate?
8. Keep all your vents open.
Closing vents in individual rooms to “redirect” warm air does not work. Instead, it causes air pressure imbalances in your HVAC system and makes the whole system operate less efficiently. If you would like heat to be directed only to certain areas, talk to an HVAC company about installing a zoning system. (A zoning system will also help reduce your energy bills!)
9. If you’re not using your fireplace, seal it.
Leaving your fireplace unsealed is like leaving a window open. If you’re not using it, keep out drafts using a chimney balloon. If you have a metal fireplace screen, you can also buy a fitted magnetic cover.
10. Make your ceiling fans rotate clockwise.
Yes, you can (and should) use your ceiling fans during cold weather! Reverse their direction so that the blades rotate clockwise, and run them at the lowest speed. When the fans turn clockwise, they help move the warmer air at the top of the room down toward the floor and walls. This will make the room feel warmer, so you won’t have to turn your thermostat up as high.
At JSP Home Services, we offer comprehensive service for all your heating needs, including repairs, maintenance, installations, and 24/7 emergency services. Give us a call today at (845) 209-1700 or contact us online.
Categories
