Heating Tips

1. Heating is the single biggest energy used in homes. A well-maintained heating system will hold down fuel costs and provide a reliable comfort. Check the filters in your warm air heating system monthly and replace or clean them when they become dirty. Have your heating system checked periodically by a license professional. 

2. The many small openings in a home can add up to big heat losses. Caulking and weatherstripping cracks in walls and floors, windows and doors will save fuel and money. Keeping the fireplace damper closed tightly when not in use will also result in heating cost savings. 

3. Storm windows and doors are big energy and money savers. They can reduce heating costs by as much as 15% by preventing warm air from escaping to the outside. Double glazed and thermopane windows or even clear plastic across the windows can minimize heat escape. 

4. Proper insulation in walls, ceilings and floors also significantly reduces the loss of heat outdoors. Insulation will pay for itself in fuel cost savings and home comfort. 

5. Letting Sunlight in by opening curtains, blinds, and shades over windows face the sun helps keep your home warm and reduces heating needs. At night or when the sky is overcast, keeping drapes and curtains closed will help keep the warmth indoors. 

6. Dry air makes you feel colder than moist air at the same temperature. Maintaining home humidity will produce personal comfort at a lower thermostat setting and save money. Shallow pans of water near radiator tops or near warm air vents, or a room humidifier, will help raise humidity levels. 

7. Keeping your heating thermostat at the lowest temperature comfortable for you will save on heating costs. 

8. Insulate heating hot air ducts and hot water pipes that provide heat to the rooms in your home. This will reduce heat loss in areas that are not insulated and will help your heating system work more efficiently.