It is important to heat your home efficiently during the winter. Homes that are drafty or are underinsulated can be difficult to keep warm. You could try to use different heating methods, but if your home doesn’t hold in the heat, that is money out the door. If you have insulation problems, have them addressed for the most lasting impact. Continue reading for further tips on how to heat your home efficiently.
Heat Your Home Efficiently by Only Heating the Spaces You’re Using
Don’t waste electricity on heating rooms you don’t use often. If you use portable space heaters, only have them on while you are using the room, and only for brief periods. If you have radiators, install a thermostatic radiator valve. These will help you adjust an individual radiator to the temperature of the room.
Don’t adjust the thermostat from extreme lows to highs because it takes more energy than raising it gradually. The only time that it is recommended to turn your thermostat low is if you are going to be away from your home for an extended period.
Program the Thermostat
Setting your thermostat between 64 and 68 degrees is the recommended temperature to heat your home efficiently during the day. When you are away or asleep, set the temperature to drop a couple of degrees.
Use Curtains Effectively
Make the most of the heat from the sun. Open your curtains during the day to let in the solar energy. At night, closing the curtains will act as another layer of insulation. Don’t rely on this method to prevent air leaks from window seals. If you have a bad seal, apply caulk to the edges of the window or install a winterizing kit to the window.
Heat Your Home Efficiently by Keeping Vents and Registers Clear
Blocking your vents and registers with furniture will keep warm air from filling rooms, and potentially cause a fire hazard. Go through each room and thoroughly check around each piece of furniture and identify where the vents are located. If a piece of furniture is blocking it, move it so the vent is clear.
Install a Heat Pump
Heat pumps will heat your home efficiently, especially when compared with other similar systems. The downside is that they are expensive. If they are within your budget, upgrade to a heat pump to heat your home efficiently.
Upgrade Your Water Heater
Upgrade your water heater if it’s over 10 years old. Look into on-demand or “tankless” options, as they are more efficient than the traditional options. By only heating the water when there is demand, there is not an element constantly keeping a supply of water hot.
RK Home Inspection serves Central Minnesota with home inspection services. Contact us to schedule an appointment.