Let’s say you’re as faithful as can be when it comes to keeping your heating system in sound working order. You have it inspected by a professional once a year, every few years you have your ducts cleaned, and you have multiple zones and programmable thermostats so your heating system isn’t over-worked throughout the winter.
And yet even with all that, your heating costs continue to rise or at least not come down to what you consider reasonable levels? Does that mean you’re simply stuck with high utility bills? Not at all, because now you have another alternative, i.e., it’s time to implement a plan of action to help reduce home heat loss.
It’s a multi-step process that can lead to big savings, month after month. Let’s have a look:
Doors and windows. On a day when it’s cold outside, pass your hand around the edges of your doors and windows. If you can feel the cold air coming in, it means your heat is finding a way out. That means it’s time to beef up or replace window caulking and weather stripping. If it’s not a caulking or weather stripping issue, then you might want to consider replacing any windows and doors that are not providing effective levels of insulation.
Attic and wall insulation. Your attic should be covered with insulation at least 6” thick to effectively prevent heat from rising through your ceilings and right out the roof. Also, if some rooms are colder than others, it’s a good bet it’s those with outside facing walls. Rather than constantly turning up the heat to keep warm, have a professional contractor come in and give you an estimate on beefing up your in-wall insulation, or installing it for the first time.
Wall sockets and switches. Yes, your sockets and switches make for ideal escape hatches for indoor heat. A licensed electrician can insulate every one of them for you, especially those on outside facing walls.
Other common sense tips. It probably goes without saying, but keep your garage door closed during the winter unless you’re entering or exiting. During the day, pull back any window covers facing south to allow the sun to naturally heat your home. As soon as it sets, close your window covers to prevent all that free heat from escaping.
Of course, if it’s been a year or longer since your heating system was last professionally inspected, one call to Optimum Air can take care of that little problem in no time. Among other steps, we’ll check your ductwork for cracks or leaks, another way you could losing heat in places where you don’t need any. At Optimum Air, we’re all about ensuring your family’s affordable indoor comfort, all year long.