Are you looking for affordable ways to keep your house warm this winter? Many homeowners are concerned about high winter heating costs. After all, home heating bills in the United States are projected to cost an average of $1,106 for the upcoming season, according to NEADA. In order to reduce that bill, many homeowners might be tempted to lower their thermostats to uncomfortable levels. While that is one solution to a high heating bill, there are things that homeowners can do to maintain indoor comfort while keeping their heating bills affordable. Let’s explore some great heating tips for cold weather.
1. Stop Drafts and Air Leaks
With all the doors and windows closed, take a trip around your house with a candle or lighter. Stop in front of each window and door and move the flame around the window frame. Does the flame flicker? If it does, then you have an air leak that’s allowing cold air into your house. To stop the air leaks, you should caulk around windows and doors. You should also consider applying winter window film and installing door sweeps to stop cold air from infiltrating your home.
2. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats go beyond programmable thermostats by allowing you to adjust the temperature of your home remotely. They also have the ability to learn your schedule and adjust the temperatures for when you’re at home, asleep or at work. This can help you save additional dollars each month on your heating bills.
3. Use Your Ceiling Fans
Many homeowners turn their ceiling fans off in the winter because they think they’ll decrease the temperature of the home. The truth is that many ceiling fans have a reverse switch. Once you flip the switch, the ceiling fan will help pull the heat down into the room while pushing cold air upward. This can help keep your home comfortable in the winter.
4. Use the Sun
The sun is still a powerful force in the winter. On bright sunny days, remember to open the curtains of windows that face the south. The radiant heat of the sun can help keep your home warm. Once the sun starts to set, close the curtains to help keep the heat inside your home. Installing reflective film on your windows can also increase the heating effect of the sun.
5. Schedule a Maintenance Inspection
Maintenance inspections can help you save money and give you peace of mind. An HVAC technician can inspect your furnace, clean out the dirt and lube any moving parts. They also test your heating equipment’s operation to ensure that it’s working properly and efficiently, and they’ll alert you to any repairs that may be needed.
6. Perform any Needed Repairs
If your maintenance inspection reveals the need for any immediate repairs, make sure you have those performed before the temperatures drop. This can help keep your furnace working reliably and energy-efficiently for the winter season.
By taking the time to winterize your home, you’ll stay comfortable and keep your heating bills affordable this winter. If you’re ready to schedule a furnace inspection, please call us today.
