7 Tips to Reduce Heat Usage This Winter

Autumn is the perfect season to reduce energy usage but as we approach the winter season, heating efficiency becomes increasingly important. In our modern society, we often take for granted the abundance and ease of access to heat. Though in certain situations when warmth in your home is a “hot” commodity, you’ll want to hang on to every degree possible. Whether your goal is to save money on your energy bills or to ensure the safety of you and your family in an emergency situation, it is wise to learn some techniques in heat conservation. Below are seven tips to reduce heat usage this winter. 

1. Stop messing with the thermostat- Yes we use the thermostat to control our home temperature, but we don’t need to exercise that power all the time. Remember efficiency is the name of the game. Heating systems are much more efficient when they run at a consistent temperature for longer periods of time. Just set it to your optimum temperature and let it do its job. If you suspect your thermostat is malfunctioning contact a professional nearby

2. Seal your doors and windows- The slightest space in between your door or window seals can cause your heating system to work overtime. If you are without heat, those leaks could cause your home to cool down dramatically. That’s why it is important to maintain your home's weather stripping. The last thing you want to do during inclement cold weather is let drafts in, and allow your warm indoor air to seep out. Stay locked in folks!

3. Let in the sunshine- When your home is a little chilly your first step is to usually reach for the thermostat, but not so fast. How about trying the old fashion way, open your blinds so that you can let in the sunlight. Early on in the day sunlight can warm up your home in a hurry. Even if you plan to turn the heat on, you can warm up your home with the sun first so that when your heating system kicks in, it doesn’t have to work so hard. 

4. Close and seal unused vents and ducts- If there are rooms or specific areas in your home that you rarely use, be sure to close those vents. Closing vents in unoccupied rooms will redirect heat toward open vents in occupied rooms. Unsealed ducts can also promote energy inefficiency. Be sure to seal ducts to reduce the chance of heat loss, especially in uninsulated areas. The best method is to use a sealant around the joints of the ducts.

5. Make sure your attic is insulated- Whether or not your attic is finished or frequently used has little to do with its proven effects on your home's energy efficiency. Your addict should have a minimum of eleven inches of quality fiberglass insulation. In certain geographic regions, more insulation is certainly encouraged. Seal any cracks in your attic before installing insulation. Your home is most likely insulated in the occupied areas, nevertheless, you can consider reinforcing your current insulation. If a lack of heat persists there could be another issue, in that case, you should contact a heating repair technician as soon as you can, 

6. Ceiling fans aren’t only for the summer- Do ceiling fans actually help reduce heating costs? Well they in fact do, but you must put those blades in reverse. Put simply, heat rises. Why have all that wasted warm air at the top of your home, when you can use ceiling fans to distribute that warm air throughout? During the summer ceiling fans spin counter-clockwise which cools down your home. Just flip the reverse switch and your fan will get to work dispersing warm air. Just as your ceiling fan saves you money on A/C costs, it’ll also come in handy this winter.

7. Bundle Up!- Though I am aware that most homeowners would rather not dress like they're going skiing while they relax at home, it doesn't mean it’s efficient to dress like we’re in the Bahamas while at home. You can dress appropriately to stay warm, while still being comfortable. Dress in layers so that you can conveniently cool yourself down when needed. Keep a pair of socks and or slippers on and maybe even a hat if you are chilly, Do not look past the benefits of a nice heavy blanket. It may be even more comfortable lounging around the house in a hoodie and a pair of sweatpants.