There are a number of things you can do to help your heater.  No matter what type home heating you have, there are ways to improve your homes energy efficiency so that your heater isn’t overworked and your fuel bill is lower.  Here are a few things you can do to save on heating costs:

Heater Maintenance

We can’t overemphasize heater maintenance when it comes to making your furnace, heat pump or boiler work better.  We recommend yearly maintenance on the heater to help with lubrication and filter changes that make your heater work better and last longer.  We’ll be happy to show you everything involved in routine maintenance and why it is so important. Just having your ductwork checked can result in repairs that could account for 15-33% of your heat loss.  Besides having your HVAC technician come out once a year, there are a few thing you can do to.  You should change your furnace filters monthly.  You should refer to your owner’s manual to see what maintenance you need to perform.

Weather Stripping and Window Leaks

It is estimated that 10-25% of conditioned air escapes through leaks.  Make sure you check your windows and doors during season changes for air leaks.  If you have wood doors or windows, this is a bigger problem as the wood tends to expand and contract creating leaks or gaps around the frame.  This is one of the biggest things you can do to help your heater.  Energy.gov is available to offer more tips for energy efficiency.

Programmable Thermostats

A programmable thermostat is a must have for heat pump systems.  It allows you to pre-program the temperature and avoid emergency heat which is more costly to run.

Attic Insulation

Insulation is a great way to ensure your heat stays in. Attic insulation should cover the beams.  In our area we recommend R-38 or 10-16 inches of blown in insulation.

Add Moisture To Your Home

Homes tend to dry out during the winter.  If you experience dry skin and problems with dryness during winter consider a simple act like opening your bathroom door after the shower to allow warm, moist air to circulate.  You may also benefit from a humidifier added to your heating system.

Things You Can Do To Help Your Heater

If you are looking for ways to make your home stay warmer longer, consider installing a programmable thermostat and keeping the home cooler when you are away or asleep.  You will find the more things you can do to help your heater work more efficiently the better.  If you have questions about your heater or need heater maintenance, heater repair or heater replacement, call ADA Heating and Air and we will be happy to help you get the most from your heating system.