Everyone’s temperature comfort level is different. Some people run hot and need a cooler environment. Others run cold and prefer a warmer environment. As the winter weather sets in, what’s the best way to keep everyone in your home cozy without running up your heating bills?
Keep reading to learn the best heating tips for winter, including the ideal temperature for staying warm while saving money and other ways to prepare your house for the cold.
Heating Tips For Winter to Save Money
1. Replace or Seal Old Windows
If your current windows are more than 10 or 15 years old, consider having them replaced before the cold weather sets in. Old or poorly insulated windows can lead to a loss of up to 25% of your home’s total heat. This translates to hundreds of dollars spent each month on heating that escapes through inefficient windows.
Sealing old windows is a cost-effective way to winterize your home, too. Over time, windows can develop gaps, cracks, or worn-out seals. Consider using weatherstripping or caulk to seal any noticeable gaps around the window frames. Applying window film or using draft stoppers can provide an extra layer of insulation.
2. Keep Vents Clean
Clean vents are crucial for the efficient operation of a home’s heating system because they ensure unobstructed airflow. When vents are clogged with dust and debris, airflow is restricted, which
makes it difficult for the heating system to evenly distribute warm air. This means the heating system expends more energy, leading to increased utility bills.
So, regularly cleaning vents helps reduce the energy required to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. This also extends the lifespan of the heating system by minimizing wear and tear. Plus, by removing dust and allergens, indoor air quality is improved. This can also help prevent potential safety hazards like fires caused by lint accumulation.
3. Add Insulation
Consider adding insulation to your walls, especially if your home is older. This helps retain warm air, reducing the strain on your heating system and ultimately saving you money.
In fact, by air sealing your home and adding insulation, homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs. This investment not only leads to lower energy expenses but also contributes to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home year-round.
4. Maintain Your Home’s Heating System Throughout The Year
Regular maintenance of your home’s heating system throughout the year because it ensures the system runs at peak efficiency. This can lead to significant energy savings by reducing the amount of fuel needed to heat your home.
A well-maintained heating system distributes heat more evenly and reliably, preventing unexpected breakdowns during cold weather when the system is needed most. Of course, hindsight is 20/20, so if you find yourself needing a professional heating system check-up in the early winter months, it’s best to do so sooner rather than later.
5. Lower Your Thermostat By 7-10 Degrees for 8 Hours a Day
Lowering your thermostat by 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day can reduce your annual heating expenses by as much as 10%. That’s a potential savings of as much as 1 percent for each degree if the temperature is lowered for at least eight hours. Even within the context of the 68-degree setting, there’s room for adjustments that can save you money.
Overnight, your body’s lowered activity level means you require less heating. Lowering the thermostat by a few degrees during the night can lead to substantial energy savings without compromising your comfort.
If you’re leaving your home unoccupied during the day, reduce the thermostat to prevent energy wastage. Program your thermostat to raise the temperature just before you return, ensuring a warm welcome without unnecessary heating.
The Best Temperature For Your Heater In Winter
The lowest comfortable temperature setting, according to the Department of Energy, is typically around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps slow down heat loss for homes equipped with a regular furnace or baseboard heating system, leading to reduced energy consumption.
Remember, though, that everyone has their personal comfort zone. While 68 degrees may be ideal for some, others may feel more comfortable at 70 degrees. Adjust the thermostat to suit your preferences, as long as you keep in mind the impact on your energy bills.
A programmable or smart thermostat can be an excellent investment if you don’t have one already. They allow you to set schedules for different times of day and can even learn your preferences over time, optimizing your heating system for both comfort and energy savings. Remember, minor adjustments in your thermostat settings and utilizing energy-saving features can make a noticeable difference in your overall energy consumption and costs.
Call The Heating Experts At John C. Flood Today
Optimize your home heating system for winter by contacting the experts at John C. Flood today. We offer thorough HVAC services, including heating installation and repair services to keep your home cozy all winter long.
We also offer comprehensive maintenance plan packages, so you know your systems are working efficiently — receive a discount on repairs if they’re not. Even if you don’t have a maintenance plan, chances are we have a good deal for you on our coupons page. Or give us a call at 703-214-5611 for same-day service!
