Your Akron home uses a substantial amount of energy for your heating system to warm it up during the winter months. Despite the very cold temperatures that this city gets during this season, there are ways to stay warm while consuming less energy. The key is to incorporate several tactics so that you save as much energy as possible.
1. Heating System Optimization
Make sure that you are getting regular maintenance on your heating system. You should have a professional inspection performed about once a year. In between these appointments, keep an eye on your filter. Make sure to clean or replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, which is usually every 30 to 60 days.
Consider a programmable thermostat so that you have greater control over your home’s temperature during different times of the day. For example, turn it down when you are at work or on vacation for an extended period of time.
Ensure that there are no air leaks in your ductwork or around your home, so that your heat stays inside where it belongs. A professional can come out and do an inspection for you. They will check your vents, ductwork, doors, and windows to see if they need sealing or better insulation. Having your ductwork cleaned can also help save energy by promoting ample air flow through your HVAC system.
2. Winterize Your Windows
If you get close to your windows on very cold days, you might feel a chill. This can make your house feel a bit colder, causing you to crank up your heat to stay warm. Winterizing your windows will prevent this issue so that you can save energy.
The easiest way to winterize your windows is with heavy drapes or curtains. You can swap out what you currently have for insulated window coverings. Once the sun goes down, just shut the drapes or curtains to keep the cold air out. You should also replace old and worn-out caulk around the frame of your windows to prevent drafts. You can also use a window insulation film to further reduce heat loss through your windows.
3. Check Your Insulation
You can have a professional come out and inspect your home’s insulation level. They will let you know if there are areas where you need to add more material. They will pay particular attention to your attic since a lot of your heat will escape here. A professional will also look at any crawl spaces or your basement to ensure that your insulation is sufficient. They will also check the insulation around your pipes. Good pipe insulation not only reduces energy usage, but it can also reduce the risk of frozen pipes in the winter.
4. Consider Your Landscaping
Your outdoor plants and landscaping can actually impact your home’s energy usage. Start by looking at anything that obstructs sunlight from penetrating your windows or reaching your home. You might need to trim trees or cut back large hedges. Getting a lot of sunlight can help keep your home warmer during the day.
You might also consider planting shrubs or trees to act as windbreaks. They can reduce heat loss when you put them on your home’s windward side.
5. Examine Your Fireplace
Your fireplace can either help or hurt your energy usage during the winter months. If you maintain and use it properly, it could help you considerably since you will not have to turn your heat up as high to stay warm. First, have a professional come out and do a full inspection and cleaning so that it is safe to use.
Next, use a fireplace insert. This will prevent hot air from going up the chimney so that it stays in your home. Make sure that there are no leaks or gaps around the structure of your fireplace. This will keep warm air inside your home. Lastly, close the damper when you are not using your fireplace so warm air cannot escape.
6. Blankets and Clothing
Take advantage of blankets and clothing layers when you are home. This is a simple way to stay warm without having to turn your heat up and use more energy. When it comes to clothing, consider thermal garments that you can easily wear under your clothing. Keep extra blankets so that the members of your household can double up at night if necessary.
HVAC Experts in Akron
Saving energy in your Akron home allows you to reduce your utility bills and your carbon footprint. Our team at Bernard Heating & Cooling can help make sure that you are doing everything possible to keep your home’s energy usage low. We can also assist with any other HVAC needs that you have.
Contact Bernard Heating & Cooling in Akron today to learn more about saving money on your winter energy bills.
