The winter months can be brutal on your heating bill. If your house is not well insulated, heat can leak out and cause your furnace to work harder for longer periods of time. This is especially true for older homes. If you are ready to lower your heating bill this winter, follow these simple tips and tricks to stop your furnace from working overtime.
Furnace Maintenance
Most homes are heated with a central HVAC system. If this is true in your case, you’ll want to ensure that you are changing your furnace filter regularly. Typically, a one to two-inch filter should be changed every three months; a four-inch filter every six months; and a five-inch filter every 12 months. This practice helps to increase the efficiency of your HVAC system and improve the air quality in your home. Moving furniture and other objects that may be obstructing your vents is also a good practice to improve airflow in your home.
Curtains
For drafty windows in older homes, consider exchanging lighter sheer curtains for heavier energy saving curtains. These dense curtains are often insulated with thick, heavy lining that retains the heat in your home and can block cooler air from entering.
Doorways
Focusing on doorways is another way to improve energy efficiency in your home. Sealing your doorways with foam weather stripping helps to stop any air leaks. Seal cracks around your door to winterize your home and prevent cold drafts. It is also important to switch out your storm door screen with a glass pane to prevent the transfer of cold air.
Seal Insulation
Adding a layer of insulation over your doors and windows is a great way to keep your heat bill in check. Simply measure your window and cut a piece of plastic sheeting to the correct size. After taping it up, follow the instructions on the insulation kit to seal it. This is often done using a blow dryer.