7 Tips to Keep Your Home Warm This Winter, According to HVAC Pros

Winter can bring chilly temperatures, but keeping your home warm without skyrocketing energy bills is possible. HVAC professionals recommend these seven tips to improve your home’s warmth and energy efficiency.

1. Seal Leaks and Insulate Gaps
   A well-insulated home retains heat better. Seal drafts around windows, doors, and vents with weather stripping or caulk. Insulate your attic, walls, and basement to prevent heat loss and maintain a steady indoor temperature.
2. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
   A programmable thermostat is an easy way to manage heating efficiently. Lower the temperature while you're away or asleep, and raise it before you return or wake up. Set your thermostat to 68-70°F (20C) during the day to stay comfortable without overworking your heating system.
3. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
   Regular maintenance ensures your heating system runs efficiently. Have your furnace or heat pump professionally inspected and serviced yearly. Replace filters every 3 to 4 months to maintain good indoor air quality and system efficiency.
4. Use Curtains/ Blinds and Rugs
   Windows are a major source of heat loss. Open curtains during the day to let sunlight in and close curtains or thermal blinds at night to trap warmth inside. Rugs on hard floors work similarly by providing an extra layer of insulation, preventing heat from escaping through the floor and making the space feel warmer.
5. Monitor Energy Bills
   Keep an eye on your energy consumption; unexpected increases may indicate issues with your heating system that need addressing.
6. Ensure Proper Airflow
   Proper airflow is crucial for an effective heating system. If you notice the upper floor rooms being colder than the rest of your home, it's a good idea to seek advice from an HVAC professional. Blocked or air leaking duct work may be damaged or obstructed, reducing warm air flow to those rooms. Ensure vents and registers are unobstructed by furniture or rugs, allowing warm air to circulate evenly throughout your home.
7. Leverage Ceiling Fans for Heat Distribution
   Using ceiling fans in winter may sound unusual, but they can help distribute warm air more evenly. Set the fan to spin clockwise to pull cool air up and push warm air down, creating a more comfortable environment without raising the thermostat.

By following these seven tips, you can keep your home warm, energy-efficient, and cozy all winter long. Simple adjustments will help you maximize your heating system’s performance while keeping energy bills in check. Call John’s Home Comfort today to learn more.