Baton Rouge and Ascension Parish Heating Companies: Tips for Your Home’s Furnace

While we don’t use our home’s heating systems very often, or for very long, when they are in action, they are definitely appreciated. However, it is important to maintain and operate them safely and efficiently. Whether you run your furnace for a few weeks a year or merely from time to time during the winter months, here are a few tips that will keep your house warm, your energy bills down, and your family safe.

To What Temperature Should Your Home’s Heater be Set?

Even if it’s freezing outside, cranking your heater up too high can take a toll on your monthly energy bill. Furthermore, you should consider that not everyone in your home may have the same definition of comfort when it comes to temperature. So you have two options, cost-efficiency and comfort level. Typically 68 degrees can meet both of these criteria, but everyone has different preferences. If you have a programmable thermostat, you can let your home be cooler while you are asleep or away and increase the temperature while you are home.

Winterize Your Home

Another great step you can take to maximize the efficiency in your home is to prevent the warm air that your furnace is creating from escaping. Weatherstripping can help to prevent air leaks as well as stopping cold air from entering your home. Covering any drafty windows with a tight-fitting or insulated drape can keep frigid air out. You can also open the curtain on windows on the south-facing side of your home to naturally warm it. 

Change Your Furnace Filter

One of the easiest and most effective things you can do for the safety and efficiency of your home’s furnace is to change its filter. In fact, 5-15% of your home energy bill can be reduced with a clean filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, putting additional stress on your HVAC system. When this happens, your fan motor works harder than it needs to, increasing its chances of being damaged and drastically increasing your energy bill.

These are only a few things you can do to make sure your heating system stays safe and efficient this winter. If you are experiencing any difficulties or issues as the temperature drops, the expert technicians at Glaze Heating and Air are here to help.