Tips to Achieve Efficient Heating at Home

Home heating does not come cheap, mainly because energy isn’t cheap. Considering your furnace is going to be the biggest energy consumer in your home, you should expect a major bump in your utility bills in the weeks to come. The good news: there are a few steps you can take to make the most of your furnace this winter.

Four Seasons Air Specialists can help you achieve superior heating. As your leading heating company in Vadnais Heights MN, we provide unparalleled HVAC products and services. Our heating experts have the knowledge and experience to make your home better equipped for the heating season.

Here are some ways you can establish superior heating in your home.

Manage your registers.

Your furnace relies heavily on airflow to work properly. One problem associated with registers is when they are covered by items such as furniture, carpeting, and beds. With covered registers, the furnace won’t have enough airflow to perform its job. Obstructions will hinder the proper operation of your heating system, which, when left unchecked, will lead to overheating. You do not want to overheat your furnace, as it can result in cracks in the heat exchanger, a rather costly part to repair or replace.

As much as possible, keep your registers open and free from anything that blocks the airflow.

Manage your furnace filter.

Another part of your furnace that affects the airflow is the filter. This component collects dirt, dust, and debris, helping your furnace circulate cleaner air. Over time, the filter becomes clogged and can suffocate the heating system. So, you would want to change the filter at least once every 30 days. Check your user’s manual for the size and type of filter for your furnace. Not only will a fresh filter keep the system efficient, but it will also help your family breathe cleaner air.

Manage air leaks.

Paying excessively high energy bills each month hurts. What makes it hurt even more is when you discover that you are paying for something you’re not using. Gaps and cracks in your home can cause precious heated air to escape while compromising your indoor comfort.

Therefore, evaluating your home’s insulation and making the necessary adjustments should be one of your main goals. Sealing cracks and gaps can help keep heated air from breaking free. Some of the most common areas where cracks and gaps occur include air duct joints and connections between concrete and wood.

Addressing leaks greatly improves your home’s comfort level, in addition to the added protection from pests and insects. From a financial standpoint, meeting insulation guidelines can help you save as much as 15 percent on your heating (and cooling) bills, as Energy Star estimates.

Manage indoor temperature based on your schedule.

You can make this easier by using a programmable thermostat, which allows you to create a heating program according to your personal timetable. But if you want to take things up a notch, you can invest in a smart thermostat, which will do the scheduling for you. Such an advanced thermostat can learn your daily schedule and make the adjustments appropriately. Getting a programmable or smart thermostat may be an additional expense, but it will practically pay for itself by saving you money on energy month after month.

Manage your home’s humidity.

Contrary to what most people believe, home comfort isn’t all about the furnace and how well it performs. In addition to sub-zero temperatures, winter also presents another problem: insufficient humidity. When the air becomes colder, it loses the ability to hold moisture. This problem can lead to breathing issues, dry skin, and sinuses, and it increases the likelihood of mold reproduction.

Using a humidifier allows you to regulate your home’s humidity and eliminate the problems associated with insufficient moisture. The recommended humidity level in a home is 30-50 percent. Anything higher will make it stuffy; anything less invites the reproduction of bacteria and mold.

Ask Four Seasons Air Specialists

If you want to achieve superior heating for your home, be sure to talk to one of our Woodbury furnace repair and maintenance experts. We’ll take the necessary steps to help you stay toasty all winter long. And the best part is we won’t leave until you’re totally comfortable.