Home Heating Tips for the Cold Months
Are you looking for ways to reduce your heating costs this winter? Check out our home heating tips for the cold months.
It is not surprising that energy bills can double or triple as your heat is turned up and your lights are on longer during the fall and winter months in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. In this blog post, we will discuss some heating tips that can help you to save money and effectively heat your home during the fall and winter months.
Heating Tips
- Take advantage of the sun
- Cover drafty windows
- Seal leaks
- Upgrade your installation
- Adjust the temperature
- Maintain your heating system
- Lower your water heating costs
Take Advantage of the Sun
- Open the curtains on your south facing windows during the day
- Heat from the sun will naturally warm your home
- Remember to close your curtains at night to reduce draft
Cover Drafty Windows
- Use a material like a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet to cover the window
- Make sure the plastic is sealed tight to the frame to reduce the draft
- Or you can install insulating drapes on windows that are drafty
Seal Leaks
- Seal the air leaks around your home
- Add caulk or water-stripping to seal air leaks by doors or windows
Upgrade your Installation
- Start in areas that lose the most heat – attic, basement, crawlspace
- Choose newer spray foam insulation to avoid having to take down interior walls
- Upgrade your insulation when you’re undergoing other renovations
Adjust the Temperature
- Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature when you are home and awake
- Turn your thermostat back 10° to 15° – this can help you to save 10% a year
- A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set a regular schedule
Maintain your Heating System
- Schedule regular service for your heating system
- Replace your furnace filter regularly
Lower your Water Heating Costs
- Lower the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (49° Celsius)
- This will prevent the water from being scalding when you turn it on
To learn more about the heating services that Universal Plumbing and Heating offers or to get in touch with us right away, visit our website or call us at 604-873-3551. We offer 24/7 emergency repair services as well as heating inspections in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
