Did you know that heating is a big part of your energy costs? From fall- and until spring – you spend a small fortune keeping your home warm… Good news: it’s possible to significantly reduce your heating costs. At Signature Home Heat and Air, we offer some simple and effective tips.
Tip # 1: Declare war on air infiltration
Poorly insulated windows can leak 25% of the indoor heat. Insufficient wall and roof insulation, cracks, power outlets, a fireplace, and a dryer outlet are other important sources of heat loss that can increase your energy costs. You will therefore make great savings if you take the following measures to stop air infiltration:
- Opt for ENERGY STAR qualified energy efficient windows
- Use materials with good thermal resistance to insulate your walls and floors
- Caulk cracks and holes
- Seal dryer outlet joints
- Close the fireplace air intake when not in use
Tip # 2: Install Electronic Thermostats for Electrical Baseboards
The installation of electronic thermostats can reduce your annual heating costs by up to 10%. And that’s not all…
- Electronic thermostats increase your comfort by ensuring a consistent indoor temperature.
- The display always shows the exact degree of ambient temperature.
- Programmable electronic thermostats can further reduce your costs according to your schedule and needs (by lowering the temperature by a few degrees at night or when you are away, for example).
Did you know?
Lowering the thermostat one degree can save 5 to 7% on your heating costs. During the winter, a temperature set at 22 ° C when you are at home is usually enough to keep you warm.
Tip # 3: Maintain the right amount of moisture
High humidity levels can increase your energy bill because you need to heat the water (in the form of moisture) in addition to the air! Not to mention that moisture creates a feeling of cold that might lead you to crank up the heating. You should therefore aim to maintain a humidity level between 30 and 50% in winter (30% on cold days, 50% on mild days). Your home is too humid?
- Ventilate your home for about 5 minutes a day to wick away moisture.
- Always use the hood when cooking and the fan when bathing (or showering).
- Avoid drying clothes in the open when it’s very cold and make sure the dryer vent is properly connected to the outside.
Tip # 4: Replace your obsolete heating system
To prolong the life and efficiency of your heating system, you must maintain it regularly or assign the task to a specialized contractor. Some companies clean the appliances, maintain the heat generators, change the filters, check the operation of the engine, etc. However, when a furnace is nearing the end of its useful life, it must be replaced. In fact, an obsolete heating unit can cost you a lot of energy!
Other miscellaneous tips…
- Avoid heating unoccupied or unused rooms.
- Dust off your baseboard heaters and hot air outlets, and avoid placing furniture nearby.
- Open the curtains of the windows exposed to the sun during the day, then close them at night.
Would you like to get a quote for a new device? Signature Home Heat and Air travels free to your home to discuss your needs. Your current system requires an update or repairs? In this case, call our evaluation service. Do you want to know more? Call us!