Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature during the frigid winter months doesn’t need to be a time-consuming or complicated process. With a few simple upgrades, you should be able to boost your home’s efficiency while lowering your energy bills.
Replace Your Insulation
When it comes to maintaining a consistent temperature inside your home, insulation is going to be your first line of defense. If the insulation becomes damaged or matted, then it will be very difficult for your HVAC system to keep your house warm during the coldest months of the year. That is why you should inspect all of your insulation at least once every few months. Those who are replacing older insulation should consider upgrading to blow-in cellulose because that material is incredibly easy to install and very efficient.
Service the Heater
Most experts agree that residential HVAC systems need to be serviced at least once a year by a company like Aggressive Mechanical Contractors, Inc. During one of those service calls, the technician will be able to carry out a variety of important tasks, and that includes replacing the air filters, lubing the moving parts, and double-checking the fluid levels. They can also test and adjust the thermostat so that it continues to work at maximum efficiency.
Upgrade the Window Coverings
Quite a bit of heat loss occurs around your windows, and you might want to consider replacing them if you are struggling with skyrocketing energy bills. At the very least, you should install some heavy drapes that will trap in the warm air and prevent cold drafts. You might also want to put heat insulation film on the inside and outside of all of your windows. That film is designed to trap heat during the winter and block UV rays during the summer.
Check the Vents
Another important step in this process will be checking all of the air vents throughout your home. As a general rule, the air vents should always be kept open so that pressure doesn’t build up in the ducts. Excessive pressure could lead to air leaks that end up costing you quite a bit of money. You should also make sure that there isn’t any furniture or clutter within a foot or two of each vent.
In addition to these few tips, you might also want to think about investing in a handheld infrared camera. Those devices can be purchased at most home improvement stores, and they will help you catch drafts around doors, windows, vents, and other openings.