Winter is here and the holidays are only a few days away. While you’re busy finishing the final touches and checking off the last wishes on those Christmas lists, make some time for HVAC maintenance. After all, you don’t want to run into a heating problem during the holidays if you can help it. Use these heating tips to make sure the focus is on enjoying your holidays.
Maximize Comfort & Efficiency with These Heating Tips
There are certain steps you can take to improve the energy efficiency of your home heating system while also making sure everyone is still cozy and comfortable.
? Check & Change your HVAC Filter
Dirty or clogged air filters obstruct airflow and reduce your home’s air quality and efficiency. Since clogged filters restrict airflow, they contribute to higher energy bills because they force your furnace to work harder. If you haven’t done so in a while, replace the filter.
? Don’t Block Vents/Registers with Decorations
Do a sweep through your home to make sure there aren’t any decorations, curtains, furniture, or trees blocking vents or registers. Ensure that they’re all clear and open so they can distribute the air evenly throughout your house.
? Keep the Oven Closed
Try not to open your oven to check on your roast or cookies too frequently. Every time you open your oven, its temperature drops by up to 25 degrees. Not only does this reduce the efficiency of the appliance, resulting in more energy costs, but it can also cause the house – and your guests – to overheat. And nobody wants to sit next to a sweaty Uncle Bob!
? Keep the Furnace Area Clean & Clear
Now that your furnace is back in action for the season, make sure the area around it is clean. Declutter the space around your furnace. Storing items too close to your heating system is not only a fire hazard but it can affect efficiency as well. Plus, in the event of a heating emergency, you want the HVAC technician to be able to get to your furnace as quickly as possible.
? Lower the Thermostat
At night and when you’re away over the holidays, turn your thermostat down. Don’t adjust it too drastically, but dropping it a few degrees during these times is an easy way to save energy and money while still keeping your home comfortable.
? Clean Your Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s also clean and clear of clutter. Keep flammable objects away from the fireplace – that includes the Christmas tree! And before the family gathers around the fire, have it thoroughly cleaned and inspected so you know it’s ready for safe use.
? Insulate the Attic
One simple way to cut back on energy consumption and keep your home comfortable is by Insulating your attic. A well-insulated attic helps prevent warm air from escaping. Plus, it’ll be easier on your wallet. You might look at the insulation in other parts of your home so you can improve it for better heat retention overall.
? Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
Improve the air quality and humidity levels with a whole-home humidifier. Whole-home humidifiers, like the GeneralAire Whole House Elite Series, help retain heat so you can even turn down the thermostat and still feel warm. They keep the humidity levels in your home just right, which improves air quality, reduces static electricity and prevents other issues that result from excessively dry air. Your home will be so much more comfortable for your guests!
?Turn on the Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans can help your home feel warmer and more comfortable. When you set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise, they push the warm air that rises and circulates it throughout your entire house.
? Adjust Your Blinds & Curtains
Save energy by adjusting your blinds or curtains to strategically keep the cold out and trap the warm air inside. Close them at night, and during the day, open them to let the light in, especially on sunny days. This way you can take advantage of the natural warmth the sun generates.
? Get a Furnace Tune-up
Our final tip for heating your home during the holidays: always, always get a furnace or HVAC tune-up before winter. An HVAC technician will inspect your unit and diagnose any potential problems. They’ll ensure that your heating system is in good working order and ready to handle the cold months ahead.
If you haven’t already, be a good host and keep your guests cozy and comfortable this holiday season.
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Harding Heating & Air Conditioning has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialist since 1994. We are a family-owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
