New Year, Better Heating

As 2020 comes to an end, it is time to make your new year’s resolutions! So, what will it be this year? Why not pick something that will remain intact for years to come! This year, let’s work on our home heating. If you have been struggling with uneven or insufficient heating, this is the year to make a change, make a difference, and restore your home comfort.

That’s why, as one crazy year comes to an end, we here at Ostrom Electrical, Plumbing, Heating, and Air are gifting all of you some insider tips on increasing your home heating efficiency. Following these proactive steps will lower your energy consumption and decrease your monthly utility costs!

Here’s what you need to know:

Your Insulation Matters

As your insulation lays beneath your drywall, it typically is not in the forefront of your mind when you think about your indoor climate. However, it should be. Let’s take this out of sight out of mind product and move it to center stage today because that is truly where it belongs. Your home insulation is essential to your heating success.

If your home can’t retain heat, running your climate control system won’t effectively increase your indoor climate, and your home will never reach the desired temperature you input on your thermostat. If this is the case in your home, and you are noticing uneven heating or insufficient heating, you likely have a breach in your insulation.

This means that your home has air leaks, which literally translates to: your heat is escaping. This counteracts your home heating goals entirely, causing your system to overwork in attempts to achieve your set temperature. So, what do air leaks look like?

Well, air leaks can appear around doors and windows, if they are not properly sealed. If you notice that you have cracks around these entry points to your home, apply caulking or weatherstripping where applicable. Air leaks can also result from outdated insulation. If your insulation is not intact, you can lose 25% of your home heat, inherently causing your energy consumption to skyrocket and your bills to follow suit. Have your insulation inspected and restored for the new year to ensure your home is properly guarded against heat loss.

Your Thermostat Can Hurt You Or It Can Help

If you have not upgraded to a programmable thermostat, it is time to do so. Especially if you are constantly adjusting your indoor temperature, as this causes interrupted heating cycles. And with interrupted heating cycles comes higher utility costs. So, adding a smart thermostat will mitigate this issue, optimizing your home heating schedule for both comfort and efficiency.

Programmable thermostats eliminate any chance of forgetfulness, with their pre-set scheduling capabilities and motion-sensor technology. The likelihood of you wasting your energy will cut down to zero, as your system will only run while you are home to enjoy it! And it accomplishes all of this without you having to worry about, or do, a single thing!

Reducing the amount you interface with your thermostat proves beneficial in decreasing your energy consumption, allowing your heating cycles to run from start to finish uninterrupted, and reduce your overall costs!

Your Set Temperature Matters

The temperature you set within your home affects your bottom line. Studies have shown that keeping your thermostat at 68 degrees Fahrenheit will help you conserve energy while remaining at a comfortable temperature. This adjustment alone can save you about 10% on your heating costs!

It can’t hurt to try this out! If you are too cold at this temperature, adjust your thermostat up one degree at a time until you find your perfect climate, as every degree makes a difference on your savings!

For your home heating system repairs and replacements, contact Ostrom Electrical Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning at (540) 685-4040! We are here to help you establish an efficient and comfortable home.