With snow and rain constantly in the forecast this time of year, your home should be the ultimate respite. We’re sharing some tips and tricks you can use that will keep you warm all winter long.
Keep Your Heater in Tip-Top Shape
Your heater is most likely the number-one energy consumer in your home during the winter. This cost can spike further if your heater isn’t performing properly. If you notice any of the below issues, it might be time to get your heater serviced, so you are never left chilly at home again:
- Malfunctioning thermostat
- Dirty filters
- A high-pitched noise
- Frequent cycling
In the same vein, make sure to properly program your thermostat to adjust for your updated usage. If you don’t have a smart thermometer, consider investing in one—it will pay for itself in only a few months.
Seal Your Home
You can lose a significant amount of warm air through cracks in your doors, windows, and vents. If it has been over a few years since you have checked these spaces, you’ll need to inspect and seal these cracks, as letting them go too long without a seal will cost you money and overwork your heater. You can run a thin bead of caulking along cracks and then improve your seal by applying an insulating strip.
Your doors, windows, and vents aren’t the only places warm air escapes. Consider insulating your attic and potentially investing in a fireplace plug to make sure heat doesn’t escape through your chimney.
Look into a Humidifier
It might surprise you to learn that humidity can make your home feel warmer. The correct amount of humidity will not only warm you up, but it can also lower your risk of asthma and cold symptoms. Make sure you monitor your humidity levels, as overly humid homes can produce mold and mildew.
Layer Up Your Floors
Just like the added layers we wear during this time of year, your home will benefit from some added layers as well. In fact, according to the National Energy Foundation, uninsulated wood floors account for up to 10% of your home’s heat loss. Even finding just a few small rugs can impact your heating.
Check Your Ceiling Fan
Don’t let the dust settle on your ceiling fan just yet. Instead, take advantage of the fact that most fans have a reverse setting. When you use this setting your fan moves clockwise and helps move warm air downward, keeping you warmer.
Let the Sunshine In
It might feel counterproductive to open your curtains, but warming your home naturally during the day is a surprisingly effective and totally free method.
Don Some Drapes
Similar to layering your floors, layering your walls will help keep warm air in. Investing in a pair of drapes can reduce your heat loss by up to 25%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Remember to think about the material of your drapes as well, since thicker fabrics will more effectively trap heat.
If you are still looking for more ways to heat your home, think about scheduling an appointment with one of our heating repair and maintenance experts. Give us a call at (703) 457-8676 today!