In the winter, staying warm is a priority. We have the house shut up, the furnace is running, and indoor air quality may not be the best. Today we are going to talk about winter heating tips that will improve the comfort of your home and the amount of money spent on heating. We are fortunate that we live in a time when technology can improve our comfort and save us money. It is also possible to be smart about our energy use choices and use the power of nature to help keep our homes efficient.
Strategies to Improve Efficiency and Lower Costs
When it comes to lowering energy costs, technology is our friend. Having an efficient, well maintained, energy-star compliant furnace will save you money in the long run. Programmable thermostats and zoned heating systems for large spaces can also save energy costs. There are also filtering systems that can be included with your heating & air installation or added on to your existing system that can make a huge difference in air quality. Having a qualified High Desert technician look at your air quality needs can help you determine the best filter option for your home.
We can also lower our heating costs using the power of nature. In some climates, a heat pump can be a great way to save on energy costs. A heat pump will pump hot air out of your house in the summer, saving on the cost of air conditioning. In the winter, hot air will be pumped into your house. If the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the heat pump will have to switch to a supplemental heat source. Other ways we can harness the power of nature is to open the blinds and curtains when it is sunny and to make sure drafts and air leaks aren’t working against us. A qualified HVAC technician from Elite Climate Control can help to determine the best heating methods and leakage prevention for your home.
Make some common sense adjustments and use energy efficiently
The last thing that everyone can do this winter to save on heating costs and have a more comfortable home is to make some common sense adjustments and use energy efficiently. Take control of your thermostat. For every degree you lower your thermostat, you save about 3% on your heating bill. Try setting your thermostat as low as possible while still being comfortable. 68 degrees while you are home and 60 degrees, while you are gone, is a good starting point. Letting the air flow is also a great way to be efficient. Make sure filters are clean and vents aren’t obstructed. These are just a few common sense tips that can keep you warm and comfortable this winter.
