HELPFUL HINTS AND ENERGY SAVING TIPS FOR HEATING

THERMOSTAT
The thermostat is the main control of your heating system – so treat it carefully.  Protect it from drafts and open doors, as well as from extraneous heat sources.  Heat sources such as TV’s, lamps and sunlight, may give thermostat false readings.  Lower thermostat settings – Utility companies state, that for every degree you lower the setting and can remain comfortable, you will save 3% on your heating bills.  Invest in a setback thermostat and save more!

HEAT REGISTERS
Warm air registers are usually placed near walls with the most heat loss.  It is important not to block air-flow with furniture and draperies.  It is just as important not to block cold air return registers, as this reduces circulation and efficiency.  Unused rooms – To lower your fuel bills, heating and cooling, turn off registers in unused rooms.

AIR CIRCULATION
Continuous air circulation will give you maximum comfort, will more even floor-to-ceiling temperature in all rooms.  Heating unit will cycle automatically with thermostat in Fan On position.

HUMIDITY LEVEL
A good humidity level during the winter months will make your home much more comfortable.  You will be able to use a lower thermostat setting, which results in added fuel savings.  A good efficient humidifier is one of the best investments you can make for greater winter comfort.

ENERGY LOSS
The key factor in comfort is preventing excessive heat losses.  Check to make sure outside doors and windows are properly sealed, as they are the major loss of heat energy.  The use of storm windows can also save you money.  Draperies should be utilized – open during daylight hours and gain natural sun energy.  Close at night – making a thermal barrier keeping heat in.  It is extremely important (and thrifty) to locate and prevent excessive heat losses.  Heating systems are capable of over-coming normal infiltration.  If doors and windows do not close tightly, it may be difficult to keep rooms comfortable.

FIREPLACES
Contrary to some beliefs, fireplaces may do our heating costs more harm that good.  An open fireplace damper invites a considerable loss of heated air.  Warm air will be pulled out as is smoke from a fire.  Even with fire burning, it is possible that you may lose more heat up the chimney than you gain from the fire.  Make sure damper is closed tightly when not in use.