Snow and cold are on the horizon! Make sure you stay safe and secure this winter with a powerful heating system that’s maintained and repaired by our technicians. But what if everything is fine with your HVAC unit in Cedar Rapids or your thermostat? What then?
Efficiency should be at the top of your mind. Staying warm during these conditions is crucial, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of skyrocketing energy bills. Here are some efficiency tips to help you weather the winter while keeping your home comfortable and your costs in check.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Drafts around windows, doors, and other openings allow cold air to seep in and warm air to escape. Inspect your home for gaps and seal them with weatherstripping or even using towels. Small cracks can have a significant impact on energy efficiency during a cold snap.
Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to maximize efficiency. Set the temperature lower when you’re asleep or away and raise it only when you’re home. A difference of even a few degrees can lead to noticeable savings over time. Some smart thermostats will even tell you when a storm or cold snap is approaching!
Use Energy-Efficient Heating Practices
Ensure your HVAC system is running efficiently by scheduling regular maintenance before winter hits. Replace dirty air filters to improve airflow and reduce strain on your system.
Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation is one of the best ways to retain heat. Check your attic, walls, and crawl spaces for adequate insulation. If your home has older windows, consider adding thermal curtains or getting double paned windows installed.
Take Advantage of Natural Heat
On sunny days, open your curtains and blinds to let natural sunlight heat your home. This simple step can help raise indoor temperatures without additional energy use. At night, close them to provide an extra layer of insulation.
Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. Set them to rotate clockwise at a low speed to push warm air down into the living space. This trick is especially useful in rooms with high ceilings.
Protect Your Plumbing
During extreme cold, pipes can freeze and burst, leading to costly repairs. Insulate exposed pipes and let faucets drip slightly during a cold snap to prevent freezing. Ensure your heating system also keeps spaces like basements and crawl spaces warm enough to protect plumbing.
Prepare for Power Outages
Snowstorms can lead to outages, so it’s essential to have a backup plan. If you own a generator, ensure it’s in good working condition. Keep extra blankets, non-electric heaters, and battery-powered devices handy. Even if the outage is short, you’ll want to have supplies on hand to help so you’re not forced to spend money at an inconvenient time!
Bundle Up Indoors
Instead of cranking up the heat, layer your clothing and use cozy blankets to stay warm. This approach not only reduces energy use but also gives you a sense of comfort during harsh winter weather.
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! To set up an appointment in the Cedar Rapids area, give us a call at the number above, email customerservice@daltonphc.com or schedule an appointment online.