Homeowners tend to face higher hydro bills in the winter because as temperatures drop, we turn to the thermostat to keep our homes cozy and comfortable. What many people don’t realize is that there are simple ways of keeping your home efficient without sacrificing comfort. With increased efficiency comes lower bills!

Check and Clean Your Vents

To keep your home efficient, you should first inspect that all vents are clear of obstructions. Floor vents covered by furniture or drapes will trap hot air within them, preventing the air from circulating in your home.  Consequently, the furnace has to work overtime, causing higher energy bills and premature wear on the unit.  You should also ensure vent covers are included in routine cleaning; as dust can get trapped there which builds up and restricts airflow.

Seal Windows and Doors

Wood frames can shrink with age and newer vinyl and aluminum windows can lose weather-stripping or gaskets, causing drafts. Drafty windows and doors allow hot air to escape while letting the cold outside air in. A quick trip to a home improvement store for new weather-stripping, caulking and shrink film can dramatically increase your home’s efficiency.

Lower Your Thermostat at Night and When You Are Away

The average household in Canada keeps their home at 21 degrees. Lowering the thermostat 2-3 degrees at night and when you are away leads to lower bills, but will not affect the humidity, air circulation or overall comfort of your home. A programmable thermostat can be set to automatically adjust the temperature of your home so you can keep your home efficient during the day but comfortable at night.

Have Regular Maintenance Conducted on Your Home Heating System

The easiest way of keeping your home efficient is to ensure that your furnace is inspected; yearly maintenance can improve the performance of your unit by up to 20 percent. Air filters should be cleaned or replaced monthly. A blocked filter can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder.

Fahrhall Home Comfort Specialists have been providing reliable heating, cooling, plumbing and air quality service and installation to customers in Windsor-Essex & Chatham-Kent since 1967. We are committed to providing excellent service for all of our customers.

Contact us today with any questions you may have and to schedule heating repair or maintenance today!