In this region, having sufficient heat in the home isn’t a matter of comfort; when winter rolls in, it’s a matter of survival!
But heating is frequently the single biggest energy expense in our homes, burning up as much as 45% of the average American’s energy bill.
If your home heating system contains inefficiencies, it is your wallet that is going to feel the pinch. Your home will not be as cozy and warm this winter as you would like, and your energy costs will still be high. The heat you are paying to produce will escape or be wasted on rooms that are seldom used.
If you are worried about paying too much to heat your home this winter, now is the perfect opportunity to give your system a thorough audit. If you need any assistance troubleshooting or repairing your heating system in Northern Idaho, give CDA Fix It’s Casey Ackerman a call.
Here’s a few things you can check and fix yourself.
Install a Reprogrammable Thermostat
While older homes might have a certain amount of charm to them, the thermostats they had originally installed don’t. Newer thermostats allow you to program them to account for different heating needs at different times, giving you much greater efficiency. Using less heat during the day when no one is home will be sure to save you some money.
Replace Furnace Air Filters
Your furnace is the heart of your homes heating system. Routine maintenance will not only keep you warm throughout the winter but save you money and hassle. Having a professional service your system can be a great help, but you can do some easy things outside of this on your own.
Check your furnace’s air filters. Dirt and debris buildup just means it’s doing its job. However, if it becomes blocked it won’t be able to intake as much air. Wiping, rinsing or replacing your furnace’s air filter is as simple as a trip to the hardware store.
Insulate Pipes and Ducts
Water pipes that aren’t insulated can radiate a lot of heat, wasting energy that we might conserve otherwise. Insulating your pipes is a project that will pay for itself in just one winter and save you from the horrors of a chilly shower this winter. Properly insulated water pipes can keep your water anywhere from 2-4°F warmer and save you 3-4% on your annual energy bill.
Uninsulated ductwork and vents can also lose a considerable amount of heat. Avoid this and the extra heating costs by adding insulation.
Properly Ventilate Attic Space
Keeping the vents near the eaves of your attic will prevent this damage. Make sure insulation laid on the floor of your attic leaves space for this air to be taken in. Proper ventilation helps your home have a more consistent temperature throughout the year.
Give your heating system a quick lookover this autumn. If you see anything you are unsure about or think may pose a problem, give Coeur d’Alene handyman Casey Ackerman of CDA Fix It a call and he’ll shoot right over and assess your situation.