As winter draws near, there is a greater need for ensuring a home stays warm. By using other methods to keep the house as tightly closed and warm as possible, it is easier to conserve heat and energy. By doing so, it is much easier to save on heating costs. Experts can assist by ensuring that heating is properly put in. In addition, they can offer service calls for repair, so no home is without heat for long. However, before resorting to turning heat all the way on high, let?s review the ways that can assist when it comes to saving on heating.
Sealing Up a House Can Prevent Heat Loss
It has been proven that roughly about 25% of heat escapes through small holes and even cracked areas in and around a house. By sealing up the areas where heat escapes, the house stays warmer for longer periods of time. It also eliminates the problem of calling a professional heating contractor and thinking there is something wrong with the heater, when there isn?t. The fact of the matter is, taking preventative measure will greatly enhance any home heating system. Begin by looking for holes, cracks, or other spots around the home where it appears heat is being lost through. Check places that might not be suspected, such as drafts from under the door, or from unwelcome visitors, like mice. Closing up unknown areas will bring about a noticeable change.
In order for an HVAC system to run properly, inspection should be scheduled twice a year, so everything is in working order. This should include once before spring occurs, as well as once in the fall, before winter sets in. Many individuals write this off as unneeded, but by having a professional heating contractor come out and review the system, it can be verified that it is running safely, and everything is up to code. By preventing issues before they start, people can not only save more money, but also have peace of mind. A professional can tell if something has not been properly installed, which could disrupt the equipment?s ability to properly heat the home. Improper installation can affect a home by 30%. Having someone who knows what to look for and how to fix it is well worth the expense.
Keep Air Ducts Clean Every Season to Maximize Heating Benefits
Many homeowners do not know about the benefits of keeping the air ducts clean, before turning the heat on for the year. By getting rid of dust or other debris that may be caught in the ducts, the home not only doesn?t have unpleasant smells, but it can also protect from potential fire hazards. Making sure that the HVAC system is in good working order, as well as clean, is a safe and helpful way to begin the transition to cooler winter weather. It is advised that air ducts be cleaned every three to five years, so they can keep operating in prime condition.
Close and Seal Windows to Prevent Leaking Air
Many people do not realize it, but windows are a main source of heating loss, as air leaks out of them no matter what the weather is outside. To prevent this from happening, a simple window seal kit can be purchased at any hardware or home improvement store. It usually has plastic that goes over the window, and is often closed shut with either tape, or a hair dryer, to shut and seal air out. While this might seem silly to some homeowners, they can keep more of the heat in the house by focusing on windows and doors that won?t be opened or used during the winter. Don?t forget about sun rooms, or bigger windows. These can include bay windows, as well as floor-to-ceiling ones, which are known for taking up a lot of energy.
Before calling out a professional heating contractor, there are many things that can be done to ready a home for the oncoming winter. Making small preparations now, as well as getting the expert opinion, will do a great deal when it comes to protecting the house for the beginning of cold weather.