Keeping your home warm in the winter is one of the largest energy expenses, taking as much as 42% of your utility bill. You can’t afford to keep making the same heating mistakes if you hope to start saving. So here are some of the most common heating mistakes homeowners make that you want to avoid:
1. Cranking Up the Thermostat
Do not turn your thermostat way up in an attempt to heat your home faster. It won’t work. Most furnaces operate at one speed and pump heat at a consistent rate, regardless of what the thermostat is set at. Instead, the unit will simply run until it reaches the desired temperature level. By setting the temperature higher you are simply increasing the time your furnace will run. Instead, just set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature and leave it alone.
2. Leaving the Heater Running
Rather than coming home to a cold house, many homeowners instead opt to leave the heater running all day. This is a needless waste of money and energy. It also strains your HVAC system and makes mechanical problems more likely. The best solution is a programmable or smart thermostat. This way you can allow the temperature to drop to an efficient level when you leave in the morning (but not down to freezing) and heat your home back up 30 minutes before you get home.
3. Forgetting to Change Air Filters
This isn’t just an efficiency concern. A clogged filter is bad for your HVAC system and your air quality. It could prevent your furnace from working or wear out the motor and parts faster. It could also exacerbate asthma, allergies, or other respiratory problems. The simplest thing is to set a reminder on your calendar to check your filter every 30 days. Pull it out of the slot, hold it up to the light, and if the light doesn’t come through, your filter is clogged and needs replacement. When you replace the filter simply write the date on the filter itself and reset your personal reminder for 30 days.
4. Using Space Heaters
Generally, your central heating will be less expensive and far safer than running smaller electric heaters in different rooms. Space heaters are the cause of an astounding number of residential fires. A space heater might save you a few dollars if you use it on a frigid winter night to heat a single, well-insulated room. Just be sure you read and adhere to all safety measures.
5. Overestimating a Wood-Burning Fire
While great for ambiance and some warmth, about 90 percent of the warm air from a fire goes right out the chimney. And unfortunately, cold air rushes inside from the open flue. The reality is a fireplace can cost you more, as your furnace runs to compensate for the heat loss.
6. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms
This seems like a good way to cut down costs and only heat the rooms you use, but your furnace and ducts are sized to deliver a proportionate amount of air to each room in your home. Closing vents changes that delicate balance and the airflow resistance can cause extra stress on your heating system.
7. DIY Heating Repairs
HVAC servicing requires advanced training and knowledge. Even if you think it is a simple repair and you might have the right tools, the job will be more complicated. Trying to DIY any repairs beyond changing the thermostat batteries or changing the air filters could end up with some expensive consequences. You should use a professional to help you wire and set up a new thermostat just to make sure it is compatible and properly installed.
8. Neglecting Routine Maintenance
Instead of getting annual checks, many homeowners wait to call an HVAC professional until something goes wrong. What they don’t realize is that regular maintenance on their heating and cooling units will help prevent most major breakdowns. Professionals can spot the small problems before they become major ones.
If you have any concerns about your HVAC practices, contact Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning. Call (669) 219-8957 or come by 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112 to talk with one of our experts today.
The post 8 Home Heating Mistakes to Avoid this Winter appeared first on Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning.