How to Heat Your Home Wisely

Heating equipment problems can cause discomfort and even jeopardize your safety. Poorly-maintained HVAC equipment and wasteful heating habits can cost you money and even the risk of a home fire. Keep reading to find out how you can make sure you’re heating your Detroit home wisely this winter.

Follow Conservative Heating Practices

Using your heating system wisely means reducing heat waste to get the most from your furnace. Avoid running your furnace when no one is home and keep the temperature lower at night, when you can bundle up under your blankets. A programmable thermostat can make heating your home wisely a cinch—you can create heating programs that match your family’s schedule to ensure you’ll never forget to adjust the thermostat again. To further increase the impact of your home’s heating system, close air registers in rooms you rarely use, such as guest rooms and bathrooms. Keep in mind that closing more than 40% of your registers can actually increase, rather than decrease, the strain on your furnace.

Use Heating Appliances Appropriately

Depending upon your lifestyle and your preferences, portable heating units can reduce your dependence on your furnace during the winter. However, there is important safety information to keep in mind when using portable heaters. The majority of propane heaters are meant for use outdoors only. Never use an outdoor propane heater or camp stove to heat your home. Additionally, never use your oven or range for heating purposes. If you are using a portable space heater, turn it off when you leave the room. Portable heaters should also be turned off when you are asleep or away from your home. Make sure the space around your heater is clear for three feet in all directions and discontinue use at the first sign of malfunction.

Maintain Your HVAC System

A poorly-maintained HVAC system costs more money to run and can also pose a home fire hazard. Have your furnace checked and cleaned by a professional once a year to address dirt, dust, and wear. Replace your furnace filter regularly; a clogged filter reduces airflow, putting excess strain on your furnace’s fan. If you aren’t sure how to replace your furnace filter or which type of filter to buy, check with a furnace maintenance service or the staff at your local home improvement store. Never store furniture, seasonal decorations, or other items near your furnace, as falling objects can damage the system and cause failure or fire. If you are having trouble with your furnace, stop using it and contact a repair service. Don’t turn the furnace back on until it has been inspected and repaired.

Following smart, safe heating practices will keep your Detroit home comfortable and problem-free this winter. Visit us online to read through more tips regarding use and maintenance of your HVAC system. If you still have questions about heating your home or would like to learn about upgrading your furnace, you can contact a heating expert on our website.