Winter is easily the most expensive season, between the holidays and heating the home. It’s a good idea to make an effort to heat your home efficiently so that you can keep your home comfortable and save money during winter.
Use the Sun’s Warmth to Heat Your Home Efficiently
You may be surprised at how sunlight coming through the window can heat up a room. South-facing windows get the most sun during the middle of the day, so open up the blinds or curtains to soak up some warmth. Then, at night, cover up the windows to keep the warm air inside.
Make the Most of Your Heating System
There are tricks you can use to help your heating system work less and still keep your home warm. When components are clean and free of obstructions, there is less strain on the heating system. Get air circulating through the home by using ceiling fans to your advantage. Only keep the house at the optimal temperature when there are people at home.
- Service the HVAC and change the furnace filter.
- Rearrange furniture so that the vents are clear.
- Program the thermostat.
- Run ceiling fans clockwise at a low speed to circulate warm air that collects near the ceiling.
Supplement the Heating System with a Fire
If you have a fireplace or woodstove, using it to heat the home is a great way to take some of the load off of your heating system. On a night when you’ll be home, build a fire to warm up your home. You can turn your thermostat down a bit because your home will already be warm and cozy. Have your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned before building your first fire of the season.
Make the House Airtight to Help Heat Your Home Efficiently
Small spaces around doors and cracks in windows make it difficult for the house to maintain a comfortable temperature in winter. Cold drafts blow inside and warm air from the heater leaks out.
A simple way to address this is by applying adhesive weatherstripping to door and window openings and caulking cracks in windows. Also, caulk any gaps in the foundation around wiring and piping. An airtight home will help maintain the temperature inside year-round.
Pro Home Inspection Services offers home inspections to the eastern part of South Carolina. Contact us to schedule an appointment.