Fall Chores That Make a Home More Comfortable in Winter
Adding warming accessories and ensuring the heating system is operating at peak efficiency are simple steps to take in preparation for the winter months.
When preparing for winter, there are many ways to make a home more comfortable without an excessive heating bill. Adding warming accessories and ensuring the heating system is operating at peak efficiency are simple steps to take in preparation for the winter months.
Tips to reduce the heating bill
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that reducing the thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees eight hours daily can save up to 10% on heating costs.
To decrease the heating costs all year round, consider investing in a programmable thermostat with remote control capabilities when the house is empty.
Consider re-styling the home
The fall season is the best time to decorate for the winter or holidays and make the home look and feel warmer. Cozy accessories like blankets, throws, or fluffy cushions can spruce up a couch or bed and help a family stay warm. Consider rich colors such as olive green, ochre yellow, or deep cobalt blue for a cozy and inviting look perfect for winter. Some rugs and insulated curtains help keep the warm air in and feet warm while walking on floors in the cold mornings.
Allow more light in
The property gets free heat when maximum sunlight flows into the space during the day. Then at sunset, close the curtains or blinds to keep the conserved heat inside. Also, consider stocking up on light bulbs – because the nights are longer, the home lighting will be on more often. Give each light, socket, and lamp a good dusting, then test for reliability to ensure no one gets caught in the dark.
Use the fan
Ceiling fans on a high setting will create a wind that can keep the room cool. However, most modern ceiling fans have a setting that allows them to run in reverse. The blades will spin in the opposite direction (clockwise) on this setting. Doing so will push the warm air that has risen to the ceiling down to the ground level, where it can keep residents comfy. Also, keep the fan's speed low.
Check the heating system
Avoid entering the winter season with uncertainties about whether the central heating and boiler are functioning as expected. Since it's likely been off since spring, start the heater up before the cold season to check if it works properly. If there is a problem, call an HVAC technician to ensure it's repaired in time.
Arrange for annual maintenance
There's no need to wait until something goes wrong before calling a technician. Annual heating system maintenance will catch minor issues before they become more significant. This is the best and most cost-effective way to keep the home comfortable in the winter and keep energy bills low.
Stay warm and comfy during the winter
It's best to keep the central heating system working efficiently throughout the cold months. In addition, consider scheduling regular maintenance with an HVAC repair and maintenance company to guarantee optimal heating system operation.
Forecast Heating, Cooling, and Refrigeration is a licensed HVAC company dedicated to providing affordable and reliable heating installation and replacement, heating repair and maintenance, heat pump installation, heat pump repair, and heat pump replacement. Call us for a free, no-obligation estimate.
