Heating your home doesn’t come without costs, but there are things you can do to boost your home’s heating efficiency. Here are five things you should be doing to make sure your money isn’t escaping along with the heat.

1. Check and clean vents, ducts, and filters

Make sure that your furnace ducts are properly sealed, your vents are free of debris and obstructions, and that you change your furnace filter regularly. Make a note on your calendar to replace your furnace filter every 30 to 90 days, depending on your household. If you have pets and kids, you may need to change your filter more often.

2. Use your thermostat in a smart way

Consider installing a smart thermostat to keep your home running efficiently. You can set a schedule so that the heat is turned down when you are sleeping or not at home.

3. Use your ceiling fans

You may think that ceiling fans are only good for keeping you cool, but they can also help to warm you up. If you turn the direction of the fan blades clockwise when it’s cold outside, the fan will pull the cooler air up and push down the warm air that has risen to the ceiling. Use your fan at its lowest speed to take advantage of this feature.

4. Look to your windows

If you have old windows, it may be time for an upgrade. Windows play a huge role in your home’s energy efficiency, and older windows may let warm air escape and cold air in. Check all of your windows for gaps. Also, open the curtains that are on the side of the house getting sunshine and close the curtains on the windows that are not getting sun. Consider investing in energy-efficient curtains to help keep the warm air from escaping and the cold air from getting in.

5. Make sure your heating and cooling system is maintained

One of the best things you can do to keep your energy bills down is to make sure your heating and cooling system is maintained. When your HVAC system is working properly, it will work efficiently and save you money. Have your furnace and air conditioner inspected annually or sign up for a maintenance plan. Signing up for Knight’s Shield Maintenance Plan assures that your home-comfort systems will always be working at peak efficiency.

Knight’s can help with any upgrades or home efficiency issues or questions you have. Contact us today.