Heating your home efficiently can be a challenge, especially during colder months. You can do many things to ensure that your house is well-insulated and heated without breaking the bank on energy bills. From using a smart thermostat, to doing regular maintenance around the house, there are plenty of options for keeping your home warm. Here are seven ways to heat your home efficiently.
Upgrade Your Insulation
Upgrading the insulation in your house is one of the best ways to keep heat from escaping. Add more insulation in the attic and weatherstripping around windows and doors to reduce heat loss. Check to make sure you’re using the correct insulation for your climate, and have it installed by a professional if you aren’t sure how.
Use Sunlight to Heat Your Home Efficiently Where You Can
Take advantage of the sun’s free heat whenever possible by opening curtains and blinds to let in natural warmth. When the sun is shining, let the light in to warm up your home. Keep your shades drawn on cloudy days or in the evening to keep warm air inside.
Install a Smart Thermostat to Help Heat Your Home Efficiently
Using a smart thermostat can be hugely beneficial for keeping your home warm. With features such as automatic scheduling and temperature control, you’ll be able to keep your home at the perfect temperature without wasting energy. You can even set up alerts if the temperature drops below what you’ve configured.
Change Your Furnace Filters Regularly
Your furnace filters should be changed at least once every three months to maintain optimal performance. If the filter gets blocked, your furnace will need to work harder and use more energy to heat your home. Check your filters regularly and replace them when necessary. If you have pets or a lot of dust, you will need to change your filters more often.
Seal All Gaps
Air can escape from your home through small cracks and gaps in the walls, windows, and doors. Inspect all of these areas for any drafts and seal them up with caulk or weather stripping if needed. Small drafts can lead to significant losses if they aren’t addressed quickly.
Heat Your Home Efficiently with Space Heaters
Space heaters can be a great option if you’re looking to save money on your energy bill. These portable heating devices are perfect for warming up specific rooms or areas of the house without needing to turn on the furnace. Just make sure to use one that has an automatic shutoff feature so it won’t keep running when you aren’t around.
Check Your Ductwork
Finally, check your ductwork for leaks or clogs that might prevent warm air from circulating throughout the house. If there are any gaps, seal them up with mastic tape and if they’re clogged, try using a vacuum with a brush attachment to clear away any dirt. You will want to have your ducts cleaned professionally every few years as part of your general HVAC maintenance.
These seven tips will help keep your home warm and cozy without wasting too much energy. With the proper maintenance and care, you’ll be able to enjoy a toasty living space without worrying about your energy bill.
HG Home Inspection provides inspections to homebuyers and sellers in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule our services.