We’ve got some tips to help you stay warm and keep your costs under control when it’s cool out. You don’t have to spend a lot of money!
1 – Make Use Of Your Windows
If you have big, thick curtains on your windows, now is the time to put them to good use, but it all depends on the time of day. During the day, especially when it’s sunny, it’s a good idea to open your curtains so the windows can absorb as much sunlight as possible. This will create a “greenhouse effect” in your home and keep things warmer during the day while taking some of stress off your heating system.
At night, take advantage of your thick curtains and close them. This creates a protective, insulating layer, especially against older, thinner windows. It means that less cold air is seeping in, helping your warm air to stay in the home longer.
2 – Keep Vents Clear
Whether you’re using a traditional forced air system with vents, or a ductless solution, it’s vital that you keep the heat transmitters clear. Sometimes the perfect place to put that chair or shelf is right over—or in front of—a vent. When you do that, you’re blocking the heat coming into a room, forcing your HVAC unit to work even harder, for longer periods of time to maintain the temperature you want.
You’ll see a dip in your bills if you reclaim these areas and let vents do their job. So this one is down to a question of your own priorities. Do you really need that love sofa there, or do you want to see a drop in your energy bills?
3 – Plug Up Drafts
This is a simple, low-cost solution that can make a big difference to your energy bills, but it does require some effort. Old, wooden window frames and other parts of your home may break, crack, or otherwise provide structural weaknesses where cold air can seep in, forcing your heating systems to kick in.
Take the time to inspect your home for drafty areas, and plug them up with sealant, or, if you’re really in a hurry, thick fabric like towels. Cold is constantly looking for ways into your home, and when it finds those ways, it costs you with higher heating bills.
If you want the most comprehensive solution, that may even add some value to your property, think about getting an energy audit. If this is of interest to you, we’d recommend contacting your local utility, such as Puget Sound Energy, to ask for a referral for a company that does them. We’re happy to refer you to someone as well.
If you’re looking for more ways to save on your energy bill, consider trying a ductless heating system. These units provide increased energy-efficiency without using ducts in the home. For more information, contact Alpine Ductless today and speak with one of our experts.