Keeping your home warm during the winter can be costly, but there are several things you can do to reduce the bill. You will save money and lower your overall carbon footprint. Some of these measures involve small lifestyle adjustments, but every little bit helps. Here are 5 effective ways to heat your home more efficiently.
Change the Air Filter
HVAC systems have air filters that need to be changed. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to find out how often they recommend replacement. Mark these dates on a calendar or log them in your cell phone. Replacing the HVAC filters helps you heat your home more efficiently because the system won’t have to work as hard. Know your local waste company’s rules for disposing of the old filters.
Have the Ductwork Cleaned and Inspected
The air circulating through your home be cleaner if you have the ducts cleaned every few years. This service may also find damaged ducts that are hindering the system’s efficiency. Depending on the vent positions, builders will strap the ductwork to trusses in the attic or beams underneath the house. The straps can break, which will cause the ductwork to sag and slow the airflow. Some ducts can collapse and block the heat to areas of your home. If this happens, the heater has to use more energy trying to keep the temperature up.
Receive a Rebate for Upgrading Your Heating System
If your HVAC unit is aging, the most energy-saving choice is to buy an entirely new, more efficient model. Although this can be an expensive investment, it will save you money on bills in the long run. Some communities and government agencies offer rebates for upgrading your system. Look for rebates that you can get when you install an energy-efficient appliance. Choose a unit to heat your home more efficiently that qualifies for a rebate.
Heat Your Home More Efficiently With a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat will prevent you from heating an empty house. If your family is gone most of the day, there is no need to keep the house too warm. There are smart thermostats available that you can pair with your cell phone and control the temperature remotely, or that even detect when someone comes home. A smart thermostat is a good investment for households that don’t have a regular schedule.
Add Insulation
Another way to heat your home more efficiently is by insulating and weatherstripping. Inspect the insulation in the attic. Insulation will settle and deteriorate over time, losing some of its ability to maintain warmth. Some homes have insulation underneath the floors. Look in the crawlspace to make sure everything is still held tight to the boards. If needed, add insulation to replace any missing or damaged sections. Close up gaps around doors and windows with caulking and weatherstripping to prevent warm air from leaking out.
To Heat Your Home More Efficiently, Turn The Temperature Down
If you usually keep your home at 72 degrees, try lowering the temperature to under 70. You may discover that there is no noticeable difference in comfort. Reducing the temperature by just a few degrees will bring your energy bill down each month.
Catawba Island Home Inspections offers home inspections to customers in Northwest Ohio. Contact us to request an appointment.