4 Tips & Tricks to Boost Your Furnace Efficiency
The Groundhog did not see his shadow earlier this month; however, the predicted early spring hasn’t yet arrived here in North Texas! It’s still chilly out there, which means our furnaces are still running! You’ve probably already turned your thermostat down, but here are a few other things you can do to keep that furnace running efficiently (and save you a little $$$) until Spring arrives!
Change your filters.
Dirty air filters restrict airflow and increase your energy use. Changing the filters on your furnace or heating unit at least every three months can save you anywhere from 4-6 percent a year on heating costs! If you have pets in your home, your filters are probably even dirtier – changing them once a month is recommended. Taking this step will not only save you money, but also likely prolong the life of your furnace. Be sure to regularly service your furnace to make sure things are running properly.
Seal cracks and ducts.
Windows and doors account for a large amount of heat loss in homes; in fact, installing weather-stripping or caulking leaky doors and windows can save you up to 10 percent on heating costs. Ducts are another culprit of heat loss – leaking duct-work accounts for 25-30 percent of heating costs in the average home. Consider hiring a contractor before the cold weather hits to test the tightness of your ducts and repair any leaks or restrictions.
Keep your chimney closed.
If your home has a fireplace, remember to keep the damper closed when it’s not in use. Consider a chimney balloon – an inflatable device that goes in the chimney – to further keep the cold air out and the warm air from escaping.
Use your fan.
While ceiling fans are excellent tools for staying cool in the summer, they can also be adjusted to help you stay warm in the winter. Many fan models have a switch that allows the blades to spin clockwise, which will push warm air that rose to the ceiling back down into the room.
Stay warm, and take heart … Spring will be here before you know it!
Information provided by The Seay Realty Group, dedicated to service and exceeding your expectations. Call us today! 214.636.8485
