The power bill tends to go up in the summer and winter months as your system works to maintain a comfortable temperature inside. However, you may be paying more than is necessary for energy costs. Here are a few quick and easy tips for heating your home efficiently that won’t break the bank.
Check the Insulation
In a poorly insulated home, more than 40% of the heat is lost through the ceiling. This can be counteracted by adding more insulation to the attic.
Insulation reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the ceiling, keeping you and your family warmer for longer. While the initial cost may leave some homeowners hesitant, the monthly savings add up and contribute to your home being more comfortable year-round.
Heating Your Home Efficiently with Curtains
Radiant heat from the sun is free and great for heating your home more efficiently. Leave the curtains open during the day to allow heat from the sun to warm your living spaces. Close them in the evenings when the sun goes down. The curtains will act as an additional layer of insulation at night.
Adjust the Thermostat
There is no need to keep your house at the same temperature 24/7, especially if you’re not at home. Heating the home is expensive, so lower the thermostat during the day when everyone is away. Choose a more comfortable temperature when you return in the evening.
Even setting the thermostat a few degrees cooler will reduce your utility bills. Using a smart thermostat, lower the temperature right before bed when you’ll be warm under the covers and choose a lower temperature when family members leave for work or school. Raise the temperature a few degrees about 30 minutes before everyone returns home for the day. This will help you save money throughout winter.
Check the HVAC Vents
Sometimes, simply shifting your sofa or bookcase can mean the difference between a chilly or comfortable room. Furniture blocking the vents obstructs airflow and forces the heating system to work harder to reach the set temperature.
Heating Your Home Efficiently by Using Ceiling Fans
Most ceiling fans have a switch so you can change the direction in which they spin. For winter, make sure your fan blades are spinning clockwise. This pushes the warm air that collects near the ceiling back down along the walls and into the room, helping with heating your home. Run the fan at its slowest speed setting so you’re not creating a windchill effect that cools the room instead.
Only Heat the Rooms You Use
If you have a spare room that you rarely access, why bother heating it? Close this room off and only heat the spaces in the house that you and your family members use. Guest rooms and bathrooms that aren’t used daily can be closed to save money on heating costs.
JBS Home Inspections offers home inspections, and other services, throughout the greater Boston area. Contact us to request an appointment.